Kim Kardashian West Says She Had “Innocent Intentions” In Naming Her Shapewear Line

Kim Kardashian West has been facing heat following the announcement of her new shapewear brand ‘Kimono,’ and since then she’s made the decision to change the name.” Now, in a new interview for Wall Street Journal Magazine’s first all-digital issue, Kim explained the faux pas and why she felt compelled to fix it.

“You would think we would have obviously thought it through a little bit deeper,” Kim told the publication. The socialite was being accused of cultural appropriation for naming the forthcoming brand after a traditional Japanese clothing item. 

However, just last week, Kardashian-West announced plans to change the name via an Instagram post, saying, “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.”

The caption continued, “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.”

Kim told WSJ, “I’m the first person to say, ‘Okay, of course, I can’t believe we didn’t think of this.’ I obviously had really innocent intentions. But, let’s listen. And I want to really listen. And I want to really take it all in.” She said she loves Japan and noted that husband Kanye West “was in Japan when all of this was happening. It’s a place that we love and go to. I have such respect.”

WSJ Magazine noted that there are other products trademarked in the U.S. with the word kimono, but Kim said, “there might be more eyes on me and my brand.” She continued, “And so I have to tune it out and really learn and really grow and have to realize that maybe there is a different standard. Do I feel held to a higher standard? I’ll take responsibility for that and do the right thing.”

Kim shared that they are still working on a new name for the shapewear line. The brand consists of bikini briefs, thongs, bras, waist trainers, bodysuits, thermal leggings and more, retailing from $22 to $98. According to People, sizes range from XXS to 4XL and come in nine different tonal colors, with more shades coming as the brand continues to expand.