Kim Kardashian Will Rename Kimono Brand Due to Backlash

Kim Kardashian will be launching her shapewear brand under a new name after being accused of cultural appropriation.

The reality TV star announced on Monday she would be making the change with an Instagram post referencing the controversy over her solutionwear brand, previously named Kimono.

Kim made headlines after filing to trademark "Kimono," "Kimono Body," "Kimono Intimates" and "Kimono World." Although the majority of applications involved clothing (ex. shapewear, lingerie), other products made of leather, including handbags, dog harnesses and whips are also included under the trademarks awaiting review.

Many people were unhappy with the name of Kim's new business venture and saw the appropriation of the word kimono as an offense against Japanese culture. A Japanese kimono can be a long robe with wide sleeves or worn as a jacket and is often tied together with a sash.

Read Kim's full statement from Monday below:

Being an entrepreneur and my own boss has been one of the most rewarding challenges I've been blessed with in my life. What's made it possible for me after all of these years has been the direct line of communication with my fans and the public. 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. 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.

However, just last week on Thursday, Kim defended the name of her brand in a statement to the New York Times.

"I understand and have deep respect for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture," Kim said, adding that the name was meant to be "a nod to the beauty and detail that goes into a garment."

Kim told the publication she has no plans "to design or release any garments that would in any way resemble or dishonor the traditional garment" and will not be changing the name.

The KKW founder added: "My solutionwear brand is built with inclusivity and diversity at its core and I'm incredibly proud of what's to come."

However, even by that point in time Kim had already taken the handle "@kimono" out of the bios on her social media profiles.