Kim Kardashian is finally using the name “Kimono.” And she did it without being accused of cultural appropriation.
The multihyphenate has been sharing behind-the-scenes wardrobe photos and designer details on TikTok and Instagram throughout the first season of Hulu’s latest project, “All’s Fair.”
On Sunday night, Kardashian posted a slideshow of photos on Instagram wearing a pale pink silk kimono with deep chocolate brown trim.
The traditional wide sash around her waist (called an obi in Japanese) was embroidered with rhinestones and the initials of Allura Grant, the Kardashian character and lawyer Alura Grant, embroidered with rhinestones.
Wearing brown satin Giuseppe Zanotti Ludhovica 105 heels, Kardashian added sparkle with a giant diamond necklace and earrings.
The merry-go-round of images included her entire glam team, a few solo shots, and even a few photos with “All’s Fair” creator and executive producer Ryan Murphy.
Additionally, Kardashian shared several photos of her custom kimono creation, including a photo of the inside of the garment with “KIMono by Milligan” hand-embroidered on it.
The designer of this bespoke piece is multidisciplinary artist and stylist Milligan Beaumont.
Long before Skims became famous, Kardashian announced that her new line of shapewear would be called “Kimono.” It’s a play on her own name and the traditional Japanese T-shaped robe with wide sleeves.
Within two weeks, comments about cultural appropriation reached a crescendo online. Eventually, the company was renamed Skims.
Today, Skims is a multi-billion dollar global brand.
Kardashian’s loyal fans were quick to sympathize, commenting on her Instagram post with sarcasm, such as, “This time it’s appropriate,” and “I can’t believe Skims almost got called kimono. But I’m sure you’re all crazy…genius.”
I hope Alura Grant has no objections.
