Insane: is Skims really worth 5 billion dollars now?

From shapewear to a fashion empire

Kim started in 2019 with a shapewear brand focusing on body positivity and inclusivity, but has now grown into a full-fledged empire. Because Kim quickly expanded with Skims from shapewear to loungewear, swimwear, and menswear. And exactly what she stands for. Namely, a wide range of sizes from XXS to 5XL, with a strong sense of inclusivity, making Skims not just a product, but a complete movement that perfectly aligns with the desires of millennials and Gen Z.

Kim even managed to prove herself in the sports world with Skims. Skims became the official partner of the NBA, WNBA, and USA Basketball as the exclusive underwear supplier. Crazy, right? And in February 2025, a partnership with Nike was added, leading to the launch of NikeSKIMS, a line of activewear that combines Nike’s technical expertise with Skims’ focus on fit and inclusivity. That was exactly what Nike needed.

Impressive financial growth

In 2023, Skims had a gigantic revenue growth. Skims generated about $750 million in sales, which is an increase from $500 million in 2022. The result? Skims became profitable in 2023 with nearly $713 million in net profit. Here you see the enormous growth since 2020, when revenue was still around $145 million. The investment of $225 million in this round, by Goldman Sachs, is a clear indication of investors' confidence in Skims.

Expansion into new markets

Skims initially owed its success to its direct e-commerce, but is now also moving into retail. In 2024, the first permanent Skims store opened in Georgetown, followed by new locations in Miami, Austin, and a flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York. This year, 16 new stores will open, bringing the total number of U.S. locations to 22.

Internationally, Skims is also expanding into Europe and the Middle East. Robin Gendron, Skims president for Europe, who previously worked for Michael Kors, sees this as a strategic step in global growth. There are plans for standalone stores in London, Dubai, and Israel by 2026.

Kim Kardashian’s undeniable influence

Kim Kardashian is the largest shareholder of Skims with a 35% ownership, and it turns out that her business intuition is as sharp as her influence on fashion. Forbes estimates her total private wealth at $1.7 billion, most of which comes from her stake in Skims. And although the brand has become an international success, it remains rooted in the values that Kim herself embodies: confidence, empowerment, and inclusivity.

What is the secret behind Skims’ success?

Kim has managed to build a brand with Skims that is both entirely inclusive and innovative, and has truly proven that the combination of body positivity, fashion, and technology is the formula for (5 billion dollar) success. The perfect fits for all body shapes and sizes have helped the brand build itself (almost 70% consists of millennials and Gen Z)

Conclusion: Kim Kardashian’s Skims is a success formula

Her business acumen combined with her massive reach on social media has really ensured that Skims is now so successful. From shapewear to fashion, from e-commerce to global retail, and that partnership with Nike and sports teams as partners. Skims is more than a clothing brand; it is a movement. And Kardashian herself remains not only the face but also the driving force behind this unprecedented success.