The Unexpected Collaboration: Understanding the Swarovski x Skims Collection

Look of the Week is a recurring series that delves into the most buzzed-about outfit of the past seven days, showcasing both positive and negative aspects.

Kim Kardashian, known for her fashion-forward choices, has ventured into a collaboration with jewelry brand Swarovski through her clothing brand Skims. The upcoming collection, set to debut on November 7, will feature a range of dazzling crystal bodysuits, dresses, and even underwear, ensuring you can shine from head to toe, whether you're heading out for the night or hitting the sack.

Crystal-embellished briefs and triangle bras are amongst the latest offering from Skims.

Courtesy Swarovski x Skims

At a time when Kardashian is exploring new possibilities with her brand, Skims has introduced a controversial product called the molded "nipple-bra", aiming to create the illusion of permanently visible nipples. Additionally, Skims has recently become the official underwear brand of the NBA. The Swarovski x Skims collection includes not only body chains and dazzling second-skin dresses, but also features embellished flesh-toned jumpsuits and crystal-encrusted briefs. Although this collection differs from Skims' usual minimalist shapewear essentials, it is not as unconventional in the realm of underwear as one might initially assume.

Lupita Nyong'o's stunning silver breastplate steals the show for the Look of the Week. The crystal company has a strong presence in the fashion industry, having partnered with prestigious designers for many years. Back in the 1950s, Coco Chanel embraced bold and extravagant costume jewelry, which served as a fascinating contrast to her understated color schemes and structured designs. The founder of the brand, Daniel Swarovski, collaborated closely with Maison Gripoix and Robert Goossens, who were responsible for Chanel's jewelry, to design exquisite pieces for the brand's fashion shows and presentations.

Swarovski forged close partnerships with renowned fashion houses Lanvin, Dior, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent during the 1950s and 60s. They adorned Christian Dior's delicate brocade gowns and Cristóbal Balenciaga's regal empire-waist dresses. In 1957, Swarovski introduced a dazzling gem that drew inspiration from the shimmering iridescence of the northern lights. These stones served as the focal point of a timeless black Dior cocktail dress, which remains preserved in the brand's archives to this day.

Viktor & Rolf's Fall-Winter 1999 collection featured Swarovski embroidered couture pieces.

Fairchild Archive/Penske Media/Getty Images

Decades-long relationships with fashion brands have resulted in remarkable runway moments. One such memorable event was Viktor & Rolf's 1999 Fall-Winter show, known for its groundbreaking "Russian Doll" presentation. Spectators were captivated as model Maggie Rizer stood on a revolving platform and elegantly adorned herself with nine couture garments, each intricately embroidered with Swarovski crystals.

Swarovski took 15 more years to finally contribute to a significant cultural moment that could possibly compete with the Viktor & Rolf show. The wait was worthwhile, as in 2014, the jewelry brand collaborated with Adam Selman to design a one-of-a-kind dress for Rihanna. Worn at the Council of Fashion Designers of America's annual awards ceremony in New York City, the dress was completely sheer, adorned with over 230,000 Swarovski stones, and captured global attention, making headlines worldwide.

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Rihanna's risqué dress worn to the CFDA Awards in 2014 was handmade with 230,000 crystals.

The recent partnership between Rabbani and Solimene Photography, WireImage, and Swarovski offers a more accessible option for fashion enthusiasts. With this collaboration, those wearing Skims bras can confidently respond to inquiries about the modesty of their attire by proudly declaring, "They are covered in Swarovski crystals, girl!"