Who Owns Skims? How the Kim Kardashian-Cofounded Shapewear and Apparel Brand Became a Fashion Powerhouse
Wondering who owns Skims? Discover how Kim Kardashian co-founded Skims, who the key stakeholders are, and how the brand became a billion-dollar empire in shapewear and apparel.
When it comes to modern shapewear and inclusive fashion, one brand stands out—Skims . Launched by pop culture icon Kim Kardashian , Skims has revolutionized the way people view bodywear. But who really owns Skims? Is Kim Kardashian the sole owner, or are there other major players behind the scenes? In this article, we’ll explore the ownership structure, co-founders, investors, and the business strategy behind one of today’s most successful fashion startups.
1. The Birth of Skims: Kim Kardashian’s Vision
Skims was officially launched in 2019, born out of Kim Kardashian’s personal frustration with the lack of inclusive shapewear options on the market. She wanted garments that matched her skin tone, fit well, and empowered all body types. With her massive global influence, Kim didn’t just create another celebrity line—she helped redefine the category.
However, she didn’t do it alone. Skims was co-founded by Jens Grede , a Swedish entrepreneur known for his brand-building expertise. The duo combined Kim’s vision and platform with Grede’s operational prowess to form a high-growth business model.
2. So, Who Owns Skims? The Founders and Stakeholders
The question “Who owns Skims ?” can be broken down into three main components:
Kim Kardashian is a co-founder and holds a significant ownership stake in the company. While her exact share hasn’t been publicly disclosed, it is believed she owns between 30%–35% of Skims, making her one of the largest individual stakeholders.
Jens Grede , who serves as CEO, is the other co-founder. He’s instrumental in operations, fundraising, and global expansion, and also maintains a major equity position.
Private Investors : Skims has attracted big-name investors including Thrive Capital, Imaginary Ventures, and D1 Capital Partners. As of 2024, Skims was valued at over $4 billion , with these venture capitalists holding notable shares following funding rounds.
3. Skims Business Model and Rapid Valuation Growth
Skims’ success stems from its unique blend of celebrity influence, inclusive marketing, and e-commerce efficiency. The brand started with shapewear but quickly expanded into loungewear, bodysuits, dresses, and even menswear. Collaborations with high-end retailers and direct-to-consumer strategies have propelled the brand to unicorn status.
With each funding round, the question “Who owns Skims?” becomes increasingly relevant, especially as outside investors dilute founder ownership while injecting capital for growth. Despite this, Kim remains the face and the force behind the brand.
4. Global Expansion and IPO Buzz
Skims has become a global phenomenon, available in major retail outlets like Nordstrom and Selfridges and shipping internationally. Its expansion into men’s wear and swimwear shows no signs of slowing down. In 2025, rumors continue to swirl about a potential Skims IPO (Initial Public Offering) , which could give the public a clearer picture of its ownership and valuation.
Should Skims go public, founder stakes—especially Kim Kardashian’s—will come under further scrutiny. Analysts believe an IPO could push the brand’s valuation beyond $6 billion , substantially increasing Kim’s net worth and making the ownership question even more significant.
5. The Future of Skims: Celebrity-Backed or Business-First?
While many celebrity brands fade, Skims stands apart due to its genuine focus on quality, diversity, and brand identity. Though Kim Kardashian is the co-founder and public face, the ownership of Skims is a mix of celebrity influence, entrepreneurial leadership, and institutional investment. That combination is what fuels its longevity and continued success.
As the brand evolves, expect more transparency, potentially with public filings, and more involvement from a broader leadership team. But one thing is certain: Skims is no longer just a celebrity brand—it’s a fashion empire.
Conclusion
So, who owns Skims? The answer is a blend of celebrity vision, business acumen, and strategic investment. With Kim Kardashian and Jens Grede at the helm, and powerful investors backing its growth, Skims is poised to remain a dominant force in the fashion world for years to come.
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