SKIMS Refunds $148 Advent Calendar After Fans Call Contents 'Junk'

Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS is offering full refunds to customers after a $148 advent calendar sparked furious backlash for being filled with what users called "junk." The Daily Mail reported ^[3] that the brand acknowledged the feedback and personally contacted buyers to offer either a full refund or store credit. The controversy erupted after shoppers unboxed the festive product, which promised "12 days of fun surprises" but delivered mostly small accessories.

The Mirror noted ^[1] that the calendar, priced at £158 in the UK, included items like hair scrunchies, bobby pins, and keychains. One creator, Lesley, shared a day-by-day breakdown on TikTok, revealing an unidentifiable object labeled simply "Skims" and broken clips. Her partner joked that she could have just bought a single Skims item for the price. The Independent highlighted ^[6] that the brand had promised surprises, but customers felt the contents resembled items found at the bottom of a purse.

TikTok videos of the unboxing went viral, with some reaching over 14 million views. A user named @wetsloppyswollen expressed visible confusion upon finding hair ties, stating, "I better start pulling better s**t because this was way too expensive," according to the Daily Mail ^[3]. Another commenter compared the items to "lint you'd find down the back of the sofa," while others joked the products looked like a "Temu joke."

A SKIMS spokesperson told Today that the company is "aware of the feedback" and that the calendar "didn’t meet expectations for some," as reported by TMZ ^[2]. The company stated that customer input "will directly shape how we approach future releases." Us Weekly confirmed ^[7] that the choice between a full refund or a SKIMS credit was offered to every purchaser. Critics on social media called the product "blatant robbery," with some questioning if the brand was testing the patience of its loyal fanbase.

Despite the backlash, the calendar sold out quickly, leaving many wondering who paid the premium price. CBS News pointed out ^[5] that some customers remarked they could get similar items at Dollar Tree. While SKIMS has not confirmed if they plan to change the format for next year, the public apology suggests a shift in how they handle holiday merchandise. The brand has not responded to requests for further comment on whether this will affect the pricing of their core shapewear lines.