Interview with Jihyun Kim

Jihyun Kim ("JK") interviewed on Tuesday, 20 March.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

JK : I studied BFA fashion design at Pratt Institute and was working as fashion designer since 2016. I started to build up my women's wear label on May, 2016 and also work as freelance fashion designer few brands; Vivienne Tam, Cole Hann, and Gray Matters.

How did you become a designer?

JK : When I was young, I really love to make 3D art, collage, and textile art although I was not good at drawing and painting. I accidentally saw Marc Jacob's fashion show and the moment hugely changed my future. I decided to move to New York and began to journey as a fashion designer!

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

JK : Shape that need to show my identity, Productivity as a garment, and Simplicity.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

JK : I got so much stress when I built up every collection until shooting or presentation. But I relieve all stresses while shooting or presenting. When the customer gave pleasant comments that are the happiest moment as a designer.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

JK : Build up deep relationship with artist friends that help me to become a successful designer and help to build up my business. Also, conversation with them that gave me lots of inspirations that I never thought before.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

JK : Of course, I wish to my brand; S'MM, get more fame and want to build up fashion and fine art sides. This year, I am planing to collaboration exhibition at New York and build up S/S 2019 collection. My ultimate goal is becoming a creative director one of the LVHM brands.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

JK : Be brave and positive!

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

JK : Actually, I am still learning from every my challenges and projects so it is hard to answer.

What is your day to day look like?

JK : I try to work Monday to Friday and sometimes half day of Saturday. But I am also working as freelance designer so it's hard to fix my schedule but I tried to balance between work and relax.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

JK : Current fashion trend became more street wear and casual items so my latest collection reflects the trend and combining my signature design with street wear.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

JK : If the design showed the designer's identity with trend that can be defined as a good design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

JK : Either the design sells well or design make a mark on history.

What is your biggest design work?

JK : S/S 2017 was the most memorable collection because it was my first season and got '2016 Liz Claiborne Concept to Product' that sponsored me to launch my brand. Currently, I am working on collaboration fashion exhibition, titled 'In Dog,' so I am very exciting to introduce this project!

Who is your favourite designer?

JK : Phoebe Philo

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

JK : I am from Seoul, South Korea and moved to New York when I was 18 years. Recently, I lived and worked at New York. Many of minimalistic design was inspired by New York life style and interior.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

JK : I usually work alone and only gathered team when I do something special, such as shooting, so I do not have specific philosophy. But I try to respect everyone and their own talents and potentials.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

JK : I do not much as philanthropic project before. I exhibited at 'The Set NYC,' that was helping end child trafficking. I am very happy to join project, please e-mail me!

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

JK : Getting good press, Good chance to show my design internationally, and Exhibiting my work in famous venue.

Jihyun Kim Profile