Kim Kardashian’s brand faces allegations of unpaid overtime and labor violations
Kim Kardashian’s shapewear empire SKIMS is navigating serious legal trouble. A former employee has filed a lawsuit alleging multiple labor law violations, putting the rapidly growing brand under scrutiny during a pivotal moment in its trajectory. The case underscores ongoing tensions between workers and companies in the fashion and retail sectors, where labor practices continue to attract regulatory attention and employee complaints.
David Knight, who worked at SKIMS from October 2025 through December 2025, initiated the legal action after his employment ended. According to court documents reviewed by TMZ, Knight claims he and other workers experienced systematic violations of California labor laws; specifically addressing compensation practices that fall short of state requirements.
The four alleged violations
The lawsuit centers on 1) unpaid overtime wages despite employees regularly working more than eight hours daily and exceeding 40-hour work weeks. Knight also contends that 2) employees were denied legally required meal breaks and rest periods throughout their employment. Additionally, he alleges that 3) SKIMS failed to maintain minimum wage standards for all hours worked. Finally, the complaint asserts that 4) the company did not distribute all wages owed when workers were discharged or resigned from their positions.
These allegations paint a picture of widespread labor practice issues, suggesting that multiple employees may have experienced similar treatment during their time at the company.
Pursuing class-action status
Knight’s legal strategy involves seeking class-action certification, a move that would dramatically expand the lawsuit’s scope. If approved, such status would allow other current and former SKIMS employees to join the litigation, potentially affecting dozens or even hundreds of workers who may have encountered comparable labor violations. This approach signals confidence that the alleged issues were systematic rather than isolated incidents affecting only Knight.
How SKIMS responded
The company has firmly rejected the allegations, with representatives pushing back against the claims. SKIMS characterized the lawsuit as a standard legal filing, suggesting it follows a template commonly used by plaintiffs’ attorneys across California. The company stated it views the complaint as a settlement fishing expedition rather than a genuine legal matter requiring substantive resolution. SKIMS emphasized its historical commitment to wage and hour law compliance and indicated it has no intention of settling claims it believes lack merit. The brand expressed confidence in its ability to defend itself in court proceedings.
The larger industry context
This lawsuit reflects broader concerns permeating the fashion and retail sectors. Over the past several years, numerous apparel brands have faced worker complaints and legal action regarding labor practices, wage standards, and workplace conditions. Social media has amplified employee voices, enabling workers to share experiences and hold companies accountable in ways that were previously difficult.
For consumers, SKIMS’ legal challenges raise important questions about the brands they support. Many shoppers increasingly consider corporate labor practices when making purchasing decisions. The transparency that social platforms provide means companies can no longer operate without scrutiny regarding how they treat employees.
What happens next
As the case proceeds through California courts, SKIMS will have the opportunity to present its defense against Knight’s allegations. The litigation outcome could influence how the company manages labor relations going forward and potentially set precedent for similar cases in the fashion industry. Industry observers will be watching closely to see whether the court certifies class-action status, which would signal that judges view Knight’s claims as credible enough to warrant broader legal action.
Source: TMZ / Court documents