Skims vs. Kimono: What's the difference?

While both are brands from Kim Kardashian, a Skims garment is a modern shapewear and loungewear essential, while a piece of Kimono is a higher-end fashion piece. Skims offers minimalist, comfortable basics for everyday wear, whereas Kimono provides luxury, culturally-inspired fashion pieces for a more pronounced statement.

Here’s a clear comparison to help you understand the differences and choose which brand fits your wardrobe best.

Skims

Launched in 2019, Skims quickly became a household name for its inclusive and comfortable shapewear, loungewear, and basics. The brand's core mission is to provide functional, body-contouring solutions for every body type, with a focus on a wide range of sizes and neutral shades that blend seamlessly under clothing.

• What it is: A modern brand specializing in shapewear, underwear, and loungewear designed for comfort and a smooth silhouette.
• Key features: Highly inclusive sizing (XXS to 4X), an extensive palette of neutral "nude" shades, and seamless construction for an invisible look.
• Price: Approximately $20 for underwear to $150 for loungewear sets, positioning it as affordable luxury.
• Materials/Construction: Made from comfortable, stretchy fabrics like nylon, spandex, and modal designed for durability and all-day wear.
• Sizing/Fit: A snug, body-hugging fit intended to contour and support. A detailed size guide helps customers find the right fit, though some items may run small.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable, broad size and color inclusivity, versatile for daily use, and creates a seamless look under clothes.
• Cons: Certain pieces can run slightly small, and the brand is still in the early stages of adopting broad sustainability practices.

Skims is for those who need reliable, comfortable, and functional foundation pieces that enhance their natural shape for everyday life.

Shop this product: skims.com

Kimono

Kimono is a contemporary fashion label that reinterprets traditional kimono-inspired designs for a modern audience. The brand focuses on creating unique, elegant pieces such as robes, jackets, and dresses that merge cultural artistry with high fashion, using luxurious fabrics and paying close attention to craftsmanship.

• What it is: A luxury fashion brand offering high-end, artistic garments inspired by the silhouette and elegance of the traditional kimono.
• Key features: Flowing silhouettes, wide sleeves, intricate patterns, obi-inspired belts, and luxurious materials.
• Price: Pieces typically range from $200 to over $600, reflecting its premium materials and design-centric focus.
• Materials/Construction: Emphasis on high-end fabrics like silk and other premium blends, with a focus on artisanal techniques and detailed finishing.
• Sizing/Fit: Follows more traditional sizing standards with a focus on loose, flowing, or draped fits. Some designs include adjustable elements like belts.
• Pros: Unique and artistic designs make a statement, exceptional quality materials, high level of craftsmanship.
• Cons: Significantly higher price point makes it an investment piece, less versatile for casual everyday wear, more limited sizing compared to Skims.

Kimono is for the fashion-forward individual looking for statement pieces that are rooted in cultural inspiration and high-end craftsmanship.

Shop this product: kimono.com

Skims vs. Kimono Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The visual difference between the two brands is stark. Skims champions a minimalist, functional aesthetic with a palette of neutral tones designed to be discreet and versatile. Its purpose is to act as a foundation - sleek, simple, and supportive pieces that work underneath other clothing or as comfortable loungewear.

In contrast, Kimono is all about making an artistic statement. Its designs are expressive and elegant, featuring flowing fabrics, bold patterns, and dramatic silhouettes inspired by traditional Japanese garments. These are standalone fashion pieces meant to be seen, elevating an outfit for special occasions or sophisticated dressing.

Quality & Materials

Both brands prioritize quality, but with different goals. Skims uses high-performance, durable blends of nylon and spandex that offer stretch, breathability, and comfort for long-lasting everyday wear. The construction is seamless and smooth, built for function.

Kimono focuses on luxury and sensory experience, using premium materials like silk and other high-end textiles. The emphasis is on craftsmanship, with artisanal details and fine finishing that reflect its luxury price point. Each garment is designed to feel as good as it looks, with a focus on drape and texture.

Fit & Sizing

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the Skims brand. Sizing runs from XXS to 4X, catering to a vast range of body types. The fit is designed to be form-fitting and compressive, hugging the body to create a contoured silhouette.

Kimono trends towards more traditional ready-to-wear sizing. The fit is generally looser and more fluid, designed to drape beautifully over the body rather than constrict it. While adjustable elements like belts are often included, the sizing range is not as expansive as Skims.

Price & Value

Skims offers accessible luxury, with prices ranging from $20 to $150. The value comes from its versatility and durability, providing comfortable daily solutions that last. It’s an investment in your foundational wardrobe.

Kimono operates in the luxury fashion market, with prices starting at $200 and going up significantly. The value here lies in the unique design, premium materials, and craftsmanship. A Kimono piece is an investment in high fashion and wearable art.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice ultimately comes down to what you are looking for: everyday function or high-fashion expression.

Choose Skims if:

• You need comfortable, high-quality shapewear, underwear, or loungewear for daily use.
• You value inclusive sizing and a wide range of skin-toned colors.
• You want seamless, supportive pieces to wear under your clothes.
• Your budget is geared towards accessible, high-performance basics.

Choose Kimono if:

• You are looking for a unique, artistic statement piece for your wardrobe.
• You appreciate luxury fabrics, craftsmanship, and culturally inspired design.
• You have a higher budget for investment fashion items.
• You need an elegant robe, dress, or jacket for a special occasion or elevated look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Skims and Kimono?

The primary difference is their purpose. Skims is about foundational, everyday comfort and utility with its shapewear and basics. Kimono is a luxury fashion brand offering artistic, statement outerwear and dresses inspired by traditional designs.

Which brand is more expensive?

Kimono is significantly more expensive, with pieces costing hundreds of dollars, reflecting its positioning as a luxury fashion brand. Skims is considered affordable luxury, with most items priced under $150.

Is Kimono inspired by a traditional Japanese kimono?

Yes, the Kimono brand reinterprets the silhouette, flowing lines, and artistic elements of the traditional Japanese garment for contemporary fashion rather than creating authentic, traditional kimonos.

How does Skims sizing work?

Skims is known for its highly inclusive sizing, typically running from XXS to 4X. Its products are designed for a tight, shaping fit, and the brand provides a detailed size chart to help you find the right size for your measurements.

Are both brands by Kim Kardashian?

Yes, both fashion ventures were founded by Kim Kardashian but are designed to serve entirely different segments of the fashion market.

Which brand is better for everyday wear?

Skims is designed specifically for everyday wear. Its focus on comfort, function, and seamless construction makes it ideal for daily use, whether at home, work, or out and about.

What materials does Kimono use?

Kimono focuses on luxurious materials like silk, and high-end blends that offer a beautiful drape, texture, and feel, consistent with its premium pricing.

Is Skims shapewear comfortable?

Yes, comfort is a key selling point for Skims. Unlike traditional restrictive shapewear, its products are made from soft, breathable, and superstretchy fabrics designed for all-day comfort.