Inside Emma Grede’s £280 Million Empire: Successes and Failures with Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS and Dragons’ Den
Emma Grede, a prominent figure in the fashion world, has made headlines for her diverse business ventures and substantial financial success. Grede, who serves as a guest Dragon on the popular BBC show Dragons’ Den, is recognized for her roles in brands associated with the Kardashian family, including Good American and SKIMS.
Emma Grede’s Rise in the Fashion Industry
Born on September 23, 1982, in Plaistow, England, Emma Grede grew up in a family led by her mother, Jenny Lee Findlay. Grede has three younger sisters: Charlotte, Rachelle, and Katie-Beth. From a young age, she developed a passion for fashion, constantly saving money to purchase high-end magazines.
Grede’s journey took her to the London College of Fashion, where she began an internship at Gucci. Despite not completing her degree, she quickly transitioned to a career in the fashion industry. She held various roles, eventually co-founding ITB Worldwide, a talent and marketing agency, which she led until its acquisition in 2018.
Key Business Ventures
- Good American: Co-founded with Khloé Kardashian in 2016, the size-inclusive denim brand generated $1 million in sales on its first day.
- SKIMS: Launched in 2019, Grede serves as the Chief Product Officer for this innovative clothing line co-founded with Kim Kardashian.
- Safely: A plant-based cleaning brand co-founded with Kris Jenner and Chrissy Teigen during the pandemic.
- Off Season: A sporty fashion line launched in 2025 in collaboration with the NFL and designer Kristin Juszczyk.
Challenges and Achievements
Grede discusses the challenges of her career openly. She emphasizes the importance of resilience in business, stating that rejection often stems from factors unrelated to personal worth. By navigating failures, she has cultivated a thriving empire valued at approximately £282 million (around $360 million USD).
In 2023, Emma Grede was highlighted by Forbes as one of the Richest Self-Made Women in America, showcasing her influence and success in the business landscape.
Personal Life
Emma Grede is married to entrepreneur Jens Grede, co-founder of brands such as SKIMS and Frame. They reside in Bel Air and have four children: Grey, Lola, and twins Lake and Rafferty.
Grede also embraces her dyslexia, which she considers a unique advantage in her business endeavors. This aspect of her life illustrates her determination to overcome challenges and succeed in a competitive industry.
As an active participant on Dragons’ Den, Emma Grede continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs with her story of resilience and success in building a multi-million-pound empire.
