Shapewear brand SKIMS, founded by Kim Kardashian, has begun offering refunds to customers dissatisfied with its $148 holiday advent calendar after widespread criticism over its contents. The company confirmed it contacted all purchasers to offer either a full refund or SKIMS store credit for alternative products.
The advent calendar, marketed as a 12-day gift box with "fun surprises," included items such as hair scrunchies, bobby pins, SKIMS-branded hair clips, and a squishy toy. Many customers took to TikTok to express frustration, with some calling the contents "junk" and questioning the value of the high-priced item. The calendar is no longer available for purchase on SKIMS’ website, though customers can join a waitlist for future restocks.
In a statement to Today, a SKIMS spokesperson acknowledged that "the calendar didn’t meet expectations for some" and emphasized that customer feedback would guide future product releases. The company did not respond to additional requests for comment from The Daily Mail.
The backlash follows a growing trend among brands offering luxury advent calendars at premium prices. Retail expert Trae Bodge, co-founder of the Thread Needle Alley Foundation, noted that while such products can create consumer experiences, some high-end versions may not justify their cost. Bodge specifically criticized luxury designer Christian Louboutin’s Advent calendar, stating, "They do not make a classy Advent calendar."
The SKIMS advent calendar controversy reflects broader debates about consumer expectations and brand marketing strategies during the holiday season. While some customers defended the purchase as a novelty gift, others argued that the items could be easily obtained elsewhere for a fraction of the price.