Kim Kardashian will change the name of her shapewear line

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Jul 2, 2019

Kim Kardashian West is changing the name of her shapewear line following accusations of cultural appropriation and insensitivity. 

Public outcry was swift when Kardashian West announced her shapewear line, named Kimono Solutionwear. From Twitter users to the mayor of Kyoto, those opposed to the name said it erased the Japanese kimono’s cultural significance and disrespected the deeply ceremonial garment. 

In response to the backlash, Kardashian West released a statement to The New York Times last week apologising for the offense, but did not say that she planned on changing the name. Now, just days later, the entrepreneur has reconsidered. 

“Being an entrepreneur and my own boss has been one of the most rewarding challenges I’ve been blessed with in my life,” she wrote in an Instagram post. “What’s made it possible for me after all of these years has been the direct line of communication with my fans and the public. I am always listening, learning and growing - I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me. When I announced the name of my shapewear line, I did so with the best intentions in mind. My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name. I will be in touch soon. Thank you for your understanding and support always.”

Kardashian West sent out a shortened version of the statement on Twitter, where images of the shapewear line were first unveiled. 

The shapewear line is set to debut in July, and a new name is yet to be announced.