Kim Kardashian's Skims Stops Shipping to Israel, Raising Local Prices and Limiting Selection
The American online retailer Skims, founded by Kim Kardashian, has ceased international shipping to Israel. Previously, Israeli customers could order items from Skims.com with a shipping fee of 35 shekels and an 18% VAT on purchases over $75 (approximately 229.5 shekels). Now, Israeli shoppers must buy Skims products through local channels such as Factory 54 stores and the Israeli website skims.co.il, which offers free shipping within 2 to 4 days. The international site redirects users to the local platform, which has a more limited inventory and fewer promotions compared to the U.S. site.
The main loss for Israeli consumers is access to better prices, exclusive discounts, and a wider range of sizes and products available on the U.S. site. For example, a Cupro Jersey Ruched Long Dress costs 849 shekels in Israel but only $198 (about 606 shekels) in the U.S., making Israeli prices roughly 40% higher even after adding VAT and shipping. Price comparisons with other countries show Israel is more expensive than the U.S., the United Arab Emirates, and the UK for many items, though sometimes cheaper than parts of Europe.
Other examples include the Fits Everybody Strapless Bra, which is 32% more expensive in Israel than in the U.S., and Lace Boy Shorts, which cost about 60% more locally. Some countries offer promotions like "3 for X" deals that significantly reduce prices, which are not available in Israel. Certain items such as silk lace shorts, mid-thigh bodysuits, and crochet mini dresses are also missing from the Israeli online inventory but remain available in the U.S.
Overall, Israeli consumers face higher prices and reduced product variety following the halt of direct shipments from Skims’ American website. The local site provides convenience and faster delivery but at a premium cost and with fewer options.
