Celebrity fashion designer Kelly Nishimoto has publicly accused representatives for stars including Paula Abdul and Kate Hudson of attempting to secure free clothing from her brands.
Nishimoto, known for hosting TLC's "Something Borrowed, Something New" and for creating the athleisure line Cute Booty Lounge, shared her experiences on her "Hairbrush News" podcast. She stated that some celebrities, through their stylists, have tried to acquire items without payment.
Regarding Paula Abdul, Nishimoto recounted an incident where the singer's stylist requested to keep three pieces worn by Abdul on "American Idol." When Nishimoto offered to send an invoice, the stylist indicated that Abdul hoped the items would be a gift. Nishimoto expressed frustration, questioning why she should provide costly garments for free when she was facing financial difficulties.
"I'm over here struggling, can barely pay my rent and my employee, my one employee and my one sewing lady. And you want me to give you a thousand dollars of the clothes for free?" Nishimoto said, detailing the stylist's request.
According to Nishimoto, all items were returned once it became clear they would not be gifted, a move she described as "tacky."
Nishimoto also alleged that Kate Hudson's stylist inquired about obtaining a free pair of Cute Booty leggings. This request came despite Hudson having co-launched her own athleisure brand, Fabletics. Nishimoto stated she offered to send an invoice, after which she heard nothing further.
Nishimoto announced in February the closure of her fashion brand after 22 years to pursue other projects. She now hosts the "Hairbrush News" podcast.
Following Nishimoto's claims, some social media users and industry figures defended Abdul and Hudson. Makeup artist Ernesto Casillas suggested that the responsibility lies with the stylists, not the clients, stating, "This is on the stylist, not the client. They don’t wanna chip into their own budget."
Designer Michael Costello also defended Abdul, asserting that she has always conducted herself professionally and paid in full for any items she has worn from his company. He suggested that the stylist might have acted without Abdul's explicit knowledge or approval.
Representatives for Abdul and Hudson have been contacted for comment.