Elaine Kim Interview

A big thanks to Samantha Lefkowitz @ D’Orazio & Associates for setting up this interview with fashion designer Elaine Kim.

MarieRedd: First let me thank you Elaine, for taking time from your business schedule to sit down with A Fashion Affair. Thank you Elaine.

Elaine Kim: You are so welcome. Thank you....

MR: Now you were born in Korea and raised in California. How old were you when your family moved to the States?

EK: I moved to San Francisco from Seoul when I was 8 years-old.

MR: Did you always want to be a fashion designer?

EK: I always loved fashion. I sewed myself crazy outfits in high school and spent a lot of time combing thrift shops. However, in college, I loved studying literature and languages and planned to be a lawyer like any good Korean girl. But in the end, the exciting world of fashion tempted me and I jumped in as soon as I could!

MR: You came onto the scene back in 92’ with PRODUCT and quickly became a favorite of some A-listers like Madonna, Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz and Sofia Coppola. What was your first thought when you found out that they loved your designs?

EK: It was exhilarating! It's great when any client appreciates my work, famous or not; it makes it worth all the hard work. I am lucky for my die-hard supporters, then and now!

MR: When you took your break to raise your two children, did you know then you wanted to come back to fashion?

EK: Yes, I knew I would return to creating clothing; it is my life's work. But I needed to focus fully on Tiber and Echo when they were little. I don't regret that for a moment!

MR: The fashion industry is always changing, were you at all worried about making a strong comeback after an eight year hiatus back in 2000?

EK: (I came back in 2008 with my eponymous collection.) No, my initial expectations were to begin experimenting again in the studio and to gather a few supporters around me. Those expectations were certainly exceeded! But I still consider that I have a lifetime to create memorable clothing and to build a lasting brand.

MR: Were you following the trends while you were gone?

EK: You have to dress for function and comfort when you are breast feeding and chasing after toddlers! But function and comfort do not preclude style -- you can always have fun with your outfit with an individual touch here and there. Also, during those years, I learned to love jeans, something I never wore pre-children.

MR: Who or what inspires an Elaine Kim design?

EK: I am often inspired by art and architecture. I love interpreting the bold graphic ideas I discover there into my own craft using my own softer materials. Also, I am inspired by the amazing women I dress-- these are women who are out there doing things, traveling, and have to look great all the time.

MR: How long does it usually take to construct a piece?

EK: It can take an hour (if the stars are aligned), or it can take months. Years, even, I'd say. The pieces that stay in the line are constantly tweaked and improved. Yes, years!

MR: As a fashion designer, what matters the most to you?

EK: Making inspiring and relevant clothes for women today.

MR: What is the hardest part about designing clothes?

EK: The best thing about it is also its worst aspect -- that it moves so fast and changes constantly! I thrive on this pace, and yet it is really exhausting, too.

MR: Who is your favorite designer? Why?

EK: I don't have one favorite designer -- I love and appreciate them all!

MR: What is the one thing in your closet that you cannot live without? Why?

EK: My "Fuji" leather obi wrap belt. It instantly pulls any outfit together, and adds a great edgy texture to everything from t-shirts to silk dresses. Also I have always been obsessed with great shirts -- man-tailored with dramatic cuffs, long and lean, in crisp cotton and in sensuous silk - you put one on and you are instantly dressed.

MR: Who is Elaine Kim outside of being a fashion designer?

EK: A mother, a wife, a daughter, an entrepreneur -- your quintessential modern woman!

MR: What is the force that drives you?

EK: The desire to remain creatively independent drives me.

MR: What is the craziest thing that has ever happened behind the scenes at one of your shows?

EK: I do not do shows.

MR: What tips can you give anyone who wants to become a fashion designer?

EK: Don't hesitate, just jump in! If you love it, you will find a way to practice your craft. One thing I would stress is to get a well-rounded education first before you specialize in the trade; your cultural background will come through in your designs.

MR: Ok, Elaine I know you are crazy busy so I don’t want to take up any more time then I have. But before we go is there anything else my readers should know about Elaine Kim?

EK: I am committed to sustainable living, to maintaining a sustainable business, as much as I am committed to fashion and style. This is why I use local artisans and eco-friendly materials whenever I can. Also, quality craftsmanship and designs that don't date -- we can save the earth with these!

***You can find Elaine Kim's designs on her website at www.elainekim.com***