Behind the SKIMS: Assessing Leading Brand SKIMS’ CSR Initiatives

In recent years, Corporate Social Responsibility or ‘CSR’ has become a crucial part of brand identity.

It plays a vital role in maintaining the bond between a brand and its consumers; reflecting a company’s commitment to ethical, sustainable practices that have a global impact. SKIMS, the shape-wear brand by Kim Kardashian West, has changed the game of shape wear. The brand has gained popularity since its launch in June 2019; not only for its innovative shape-wear designs but also for its CSR initiatives; committed to ethical, social and environmental sustainability and responsibility. But does SKIMS truly uphold its commitments?

One of the largest issues in the fashion industry today is the garment industry’s waste and carbon emissions. Heavy reliance on short-lived trends and high production/ turnover rates are the leading cause of the industry’s billions of garments that are wasted each year. According to the SKIMS website, the company responds to this issue by prioritizing sustainability; using recycled materials in its products and implementing eco-friendly practices in its supply chain. However, some organizations, like the non-profit organization “Remake”, have challenged these commitments. In its 2024 sustainability report (which is available to download, here), Remake assessed and scored SKIMS 0/150 points based on the following factors, which I pulled directly from the assessment.

A key issue that was risen with SKIMS was that without transparency and third-party assessments on sustainability practices, it’s hard to believe the truth behind SKIMS’ dedication to ethical, societal and environmental sustainability. Especially when publicly prompted these disputes, the brand didn’t have anything to say in response.

Another aspect of CSR is ethical labor practices. SKIMS heavily emphasizes fair labor conditions and the zero tolerance policy for modern slavery in its production process. The brand states that its factories adhere to labor laws and provide safe working conditions for employees, and while this is a step headed in the right direction, there were previously reports of labor violations in factories associated with SKIMS’ parent company. It’s essential for SKIMS to respond to these claims transparently and with third party assessments/proof in order to uphold good CSR.

Additionally, CSR stands for social impact beyond the production process and the supply chain. SKIMS has been praised for its inclusive marketing campaigns, featuring models of diverse body types, skin tones, and physical abilities. It’s even collaborated with the USA Olympic team, and campaigns have featured celebrities like Lana Del Rey and Sabrina Carpenter. This diverse representation is undoubtedly a step in the right direction toward promoting body positivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry. However, true social impact goes beyond marketing strategies and requires tangible actions to support marginalized communities and address systemic inequalities.

In conclusion, while SKIMS has taken steps to full fill its CSR standards its CSR commitments, there are still areas the brand has lots of room for improvement. Given there wasn’t any response to Remake’s accountability report from SKIMS, I’d say their CSR could improve tremendously to demonstrate dedication to sustainability, ethical labor practices and lasting social impact. As SKIMS continues to grow and evolve, it’s crucial for the brand to prioritize transparency; actively working towards making a positive, lasting impact.