Photo Credit: Getty Images
Kim Kardashian's fashion brand SKIMS has offered customers refunds after its $148 advent calendar sparked widespread criticism online, with disappointed buyers questioning whether the product delivered value for money.
The limited edition calendar was advertised as a festive collection featuring 12 days of surprises, including playful accessories and everyday essentials. However, customers who purchased it said the contents fell short of their expectations, prompting the brand to acknowledge the complaints and introduce a refund option.
In a statement issued on November 8, SKIMS said it was aware of the feedback and had personally contacted everyone who bought the calendar. Customers were offered a choice between receiving a full refund or obtaining SKIMS credit to spend on other products.
The company said it wanted every customer to be satisfied with their purchases and promised that the feedback would influence how it approaches future product launches.
The controversy gained momentum after a customer posted a TikTok video unboxing the calendar. The clip, which attracted nearly 65 million views, showed items including keychains, hair ties, bobby pins, ornaments and other small accessories.
The customer expressed frustration over the price, questioning why buyers had paid $148 for what she considered a disappointing collection of inexpensive trinkets. Her reaction resonated with viewers, many of whom shared similar concerns in the comments.
Some users described the calendar as a "box of pranks", while others joked that its contents resembled items collected from the bottom of a handbag or between car seats. Another commenter credited the video with saving potential customers from spending their money on the product.
Although the calendar was marketed as a collection of surprises, the public reaction highlighted the gap between customers' expectations and what they believed they had received.
The product is currently listed as waitlisted on the SKIMS website, although the company's refund announcement has shifted attention towards how it intends to address the dissatisfaction.
This is not the first time SKIMS has attracted attention for an unconventional product. Last year, the brand faced criticism after introducing underwear featuring faux pubic hair. Kardashian later described the idea as a playful concept that emerged from a photoshoot, admitting she was surprised by the attention it generated.
The latest incident presents another challenge for the brand, which has built a strong reputation through celebrity influence and distinctive product launches. Its decision to offer refunds may help restore customer confidence, but the backlash also demonstrates that even high-profile brands must meet buyers' expectations once the packaging comes off.
