Kim Kardashian Redefines the ‘ Ultimate Butt’ with Skims’ Latest Launch
Kim Kardashian, the queen of reinvention, has once again cemented her influence in the world of body contouring. In her latest Skims campaign video, she dubs herself the “Fairy Butt Mother,” introducing a new shapewear line called “The Ultimate Butt.” This launch comes at a time when the conversation around body trends is evolving, with experts debating whether the Brazilian butt lift (BBL) era is over. However, Kardashian’s new collection proves that the desire for a sculpted, lifted backside is far from fading—it’s just getting a modern makeover.
In the campaign video, Kardashian addresses the frustrations of a woman struggling to achieve her desired physique through workouts alone. “I know, I know. I should stand up. I should work for the body that I want,” the woman laments, echoing the relatable struggles of many. Kardashian steps in, waving a wand to reveal Skims’ latest innovation: a push-up butt-enhancing padded mid-thigh bodysuit. Instantly, the woman is transformed, flaunting a rounded, lifted butt that’s nothing short of magical. The message is clear: with Skims, achieving the “ultimate butt” doesn’t have to be hard—or surgical.
The Evolution of the BBL: From Volume to Toned Elegance
While some may say the BBL era is over, experts argue that it’s simply evolved. Dr. Kristy Hamilton, a Texas-based plastic surgeon with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, refers to this shift as “Kardashian 2.0.” Unlike the earlier days of the BBL craze, which focused on volume, today’s trends lean toward a more athletic, toned aesthetic. “It’s the newer version of [the Kardashians’ bodies] where they’re more toned up and athletic because they all kind of slimmed down,” Hamilton explains. This change reflects a broader cultural shift toward natural-looking enhancements that emphasize shape over size.
The rise of the “ballet body”—a term used to describe a lean, elongated physique—hasn’t replaced the desire for a sculpted backside. Instead, it has refined it. The focus is now on creating a lifted, rounded butt that looks effortlessly athletic, rather than overly voluminous. Skims’ new shapewear line taps into this trend, offering a non-invasive way to achieve the desired shape. With built-in butt pads, waist-cinching bodysuits, and even a push-up bra that promises a breast lift, the collection is designed to be a “one-stop shop to achieve the bootylicious curves of your dreams.”
The Enduring Appeal of Butt Enhancements
Despite reports suggesting a shift toward smaller butts, the demand for butt enhancements remains steady. According to the latest ASPS Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, buttock implants and lifts saw a 6% increase between 2022 and 2023, while BBLs, which use fat transfer for augmentation, increased by 3% year over year. While these numbers may not be astronomical, they indicate a consistent interest in achieving a more defined backside.
Dr. Arnold Breitbart, a New York-based plastic surgeon, attributes this enduring appeal to the timeless allure of a lifted, round butt. “Even as the trends lean more toward a more toned, athletic look, a lifted, round backside remains a highly sought-after feature,” he says. The rise of Y2K fashion, with its low-rise jeans and body-conscious silhouettes, has further fueled this trend, bringing attention back to the shape of the buttocks.
Fashion and Culture: The Driving Forces Behind Body Trends
Experts agree that fashion and pop culture play a significant role in shaping body trends. The return of Y2K fashion, for instance, has brought back the iconic looks of the early 2000s, where a defined waistline and curves were central to the aesthetic. Low-rise jeans, crop tops, and body-hugging dresses are once again dominating runways and closets, creating a renewed focus on the shape of the buttocks.
Beyond fashion, the current weight loss trends, fueled by medications like GLP-1s, have also influenced the demand for body contouring. As people shed pounds, many are turning to procedures—and products—to reveal the toned, sculpted shapes that may have been hidden under excess skin. For some, this means surgical interventions like the Miami thong lift, a tightening procedure that creates a “peachy” athletic look. For others, it’s about finding non-surgical solutions like padded shapewear to achieve the same effect.
The Rise of Non-Surgical Solutions: Skims’ “Ultimate Butt” Line
Skims’ “Ultimate Butt” line is positioned as a game-changer for those who want to enhance their curves without going under the knife. The collection includes shorts, leggings, and bodysuits with built-in butt pads designed to add up to 2 inches of volume and provide instant lifting and rounding results. These products cater to a growing audience that wants to embrace the latest trends without committing to surgery.
Hamilton believes the line may appeal to those who are drawn to the sculpted, athletic aesthetic but are hesitant to undergo invasive procedures. “The aesthetic has really shifted to something that looks much more like it could be found in nature,” she says, noting that the line’s focus on natural-looking enhancements aligns with current trends. However, not everyone is convinced. Dr. David Shokrian of Millennial Plastic Surgery in New York questions whether the line will resonate with consumers, suggesting that Kardashian may be profiting off a trend that’s already fading.
Who’s the Target Audience for Skims’ New Line?
While some experts remain skeptical about the longevity of padded butts, others argue that Kardashian’s influence and the brand’s commitment to inclusivity and comfort give the line a strong appeal. Skims has always been about empowering people to embrace their bodies, and this collection is no exception. For those who want to experiment with the latest trends without making a lifelong commitment, the line offers an accessible and affordable option.
Hamilton agrees, pointing out that Kardashian’s appeal lies in her ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist. “She’s definitely got appeal,” Hamilton says. “To me, it’s the sculpting element that people really love.” Whether the padded butt trend endures or fades remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Kim Kardashian and Skims are once again at the forefront of the body contouring conversation, offering a modern take on the “ultimate butt.”
In the end, the line between fashion trends and personal choice is blurrier than ever. As culture evolves, so too do our ideals of beauty. And while some may argue that the BBL era is over, Kim Kardashian’s “Fairy Butt Mother” act proves that the desire for a sculpted, lifted backside is here to stay—in whatever form it takes next.
