There are few brands quite as internet-famous as SKIMS. Contentious? Yes. Under fire a little-too-regularly for its “contribution to relentless, ridiculous beauty standards aimed exclusively at women” (read also: SKIMS face wrap controversy)? Absolutely. The nipple bra and the faux hair micro thong have hardly been inoffensive. Yet, the entire site remains almost constantly sold-out. NikeSkims practically vanished from digital shelves within hours of launching, while only a few sizes of SKIMS X The North Face remain after this week’s drop. So, what’s the deal?
I’ve tried quite a few of the brand’s bestsellers, and despite originally not wanting to love another celebrity-founded brand – especially not SKIMS, TBH – I found myself impressed. Granted, I tried to veer away from the ridiculous, testing the lesser-controversial launches of leggings, long-sleeve tops, knitwear, basic lingerie and pyjamas. But yes: I was pleased by the quality, size inclusivity, skin tone range and impressive durability. Wash after wash.
Knowing how often I’d been reaching for my new-found favourite pieces, my friends began asking me what to buy from the brand. So, I decided to chat to fellow SKIMS-loving Glamour editors and pull together this guide. Glamour‘s Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd raved about the Seamless Sculpt High-Waisted Above The Knee Shorts which she wore to her Christmas party, while Commerce Writer Shani Cohen told me that she can’t stop wearing the Cotton Jersey Wide Leg Pants (which are selling out in the sale as we speak).
Georgia says: “I’ve worn them under a stretchy bodycon dress and silk slip dress recently and they were completely invisible. They didn’t roll down, cause any chafing or bulges, or dig in and bunch up whatsoever. My favourite feature, albeit an odd one, was what the brand calls an ‘open gusset’ – because after a few drinks, let’s face it, no one has the energy to act like a contortionist each time they go to the toilet.” And the only thing I would like to add after trying this same pair, is that I suggest sizing up as they do take some wiggling to get into.
Elsewhere, I’m personally a big fan of the crew neck T-shirts that are tight fitting with a bit of stretch, the long sleeve T-shirts you’ll want to layer under every jumper and hoodie at this time of year and I’ve also tried the thongs which are so damn comfy. If you’re not in the market for solution-wear, SKIMS also has an impressive edit of cashmere and wool pieces (the V neck jumper and long sleeve cashmere crewneck being my firm favourites). And in the interest of Christmas gifts, I’ve also picked out the feather-trimmed pyjama set you’ll want to wear with heels for an upcoming Xmas party, a cable knit onesie to wear on the sofa and a leggings and long top duo that will upgrade your loungewear collection.
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