Meet Hyunse Kim | Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hyunse Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hyunse, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Art and creativity are deeply ingrained in my passion for fashion. I firmly believe that designing and crafting garments is a transformative process that empowers individuals to shape their own distinct style and establish their identity. Through this expressive journey, one can delve into their inner uniqueness and present themselves to the world through their fashion choices. This ability to influence and leave a lasting impression instills a sense of pride and accomplishment when bringing fashion to life with one’s own hands.

Furthermore, fashion holds the potential to contribute to society in profound ways by serving as a medium for artistic expression. It possesses the ability to convey specific themes, values, and positive social messages, telling compelling stories through fabric and form. This influential capacity should not be underestimated. Fashion has the remarkable ability to enhance personal style and nurture creativity. The process involves pushing the boundaries of innovation and creating captivating designs that incorporate diverse artistic elements, such as mesmerizing patterns and textures. These elements further amplify its irresistible charm.

In summary, fashion is an art form that fuels my passion and captivates my interest. It allows me to channel my creativity and create garments that reflect my individuality. Beyond personal fulfillment, fashion possesses the power to communicate meaningful messages and contribute to a more artistic and expressive society. Its allure lies in its ability to continuously inspire personal style and imagination, leading to the creation of increasingly innovative and beautiful designs.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a designer and artist, my perspective on fashion revolves around the intricate world of details. From a young age, I experienced a transformative shift in my self-image when I adorned different garments, sparking a deep fascination with fashion. Recognizing that clothing has the power to shape how people present themselves to the world, I developed a profound love for sharing style, mood, color, textures, and, above all, the smallest of details with others. Consequently, I draw inspiration from the places I encounter, the tapestry of everyday life, the wellspring of emotions, the vibrant hues of colors, and the enchanting wonders of nature—elements that resonate universally with people. Through my designs, my aim is to create a culture of fashion that can be easily embraced and empathized with by “everyone.”

At the core of my design approach lies a resolute focus on tailoring. My exploration of this craft kindled a fervor within me as I delved into various techniques and intricacies. Immersed in the art of sewing, I came to understand the patience and time that this discipline demands, further intensifying my fascination with design. It was through this transformative process that I found myself expressing the very act of creating garments within my designs.

To me, fashion embodies a novel form of expression that stems from genuine communication and empathy with diverse individuals. My college experience not only taught me the technical aspects of fashion and garment construction but also highlighted the significance of effective communication and understanding. Engaging in conversations with people from different backgrounds and sharing their stories, which I had not personally experienced, provided me with indirect insight into new realms. This realization stemmed from the awareness that our individual experiences and the cultures in which we are raised greatly influence our perspectives. I became acutely aware of the value of comprehending and sympathizing with one another, as it enriches our collective human experience. When selecting a theme for designing clothes, I believe it is crucial to incorporate elements that foster dialogue. It goes beyond my own memories, experiences, and narratives; it encompasses stories and concepts that can spark conversations with diverse individuals. Thus, in my creative endeavors, I consciously choose topics inspired by social life, transcending my personal sphere. By exploring themes such as the corporate employee’s suit, which may signify both fashion and style for some, while serving as a uniform for others, I seek to offer multiple perspectives and tap into the vast array of experiences people have had, thereby generating innovative designs and ideas.

Throughout my design journey, I have encountered challenges and undergone numerous trial-and-error processes, often yielding outcomes that deviate from my initial expectations. Yet, I perceive these experiences as invaluable opportunities for growth. Each hurdle has allowed me to refine my skills and develop a more adaptable and organic approach to design. In my perspective, there are no failures in my work—only stepping stones that shape my artistic evolution. Fueled by unwavering self-belief, I persistently practice and hone my craft, embracing the ethos that growth and creativity spring forth from every design endeavor.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I highly recommend visiting The Getty Villa, where a captivating fusion of architectural splendor, ancient art, and cultural significance awaits. Prepare to embark on a mesmerizing journey through time as you explore the meticulously recreated ambiance of an ancient Roman villa. Every corner of this remarkable establishment showcases intricate galleries, serene gardens, and a majestic atrium, transporting visitors to a bygone era.

Inside the villa, an awe-inspiring collection of ancient art awaits your friend’s discovery. Marvel at the array of sculptures, mosaics, pottery, and frescoes hailing from Greece and Rome, each offering profound insights into the civilizations and artistic traditions of antiquity. These masterpieces serve as windows into the past, enabling a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of human history.

Beyond the captivating interiors, your friend can bask in the tranquility of the gardens, thoughtfully designed to evoke the essence of ancient Mediterranean landscapes. Strolling through these serene surroundings, they will find themselves immersed in a harmonious union of art and nature, a sanctuary for reflection and inspiration.

The Getty Villa stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and artistic expression. It offers a truly unique and immersive experience, where history comes alive, and the beauty of ancient art and culture can be appreciated in all their glory. From the meticulously crafted architectural details to the thoughtfully curated artworks, every aspect of this enchanting destination beckons visitors to delve deeper into the wonders of the past.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The origins of my passion for fashion can be traced back to the profound influence of my mother, whose unwavering love and support ignited my creative spirit. Even in my earliest years, she recognized my enchantment with clothing and design, and she took active measures to nurture and cultivate that interest. Through her guidance, a world of exhibitions and artistic encounters opened up before me, expanding my horizons and fueling my imagination.

From tender moments of my childhood, my mother whisked me away to museums and galleries, exposing me to a diverse array of artistic expressions. It was within these hallowed halls that I began to develop a deep appreciation for the harmonious interplay of colors, the tactile allure of various materials, and the profound emotions they could elicit. Each stroke of the artist’s brush and every meticulously crafted garment became a source of wonder and inspiration.

Moreover, my mother’s unwavering encouragement emboldened me to explore different styles and garments, allowing my curiosity and self-expression to flourish. She recognized that fashion was more than mere fabric and threads; it was a powerful means of communicating one’s identity and innermost thoughts. With her support, I felt free to experiment and embrace my own unique sense of style, a freedom that has shaped my creative vision and continues to drive me forward.

It is undeniable that my mother’s love and guidance laid the foundation for my career in the world of fashion. Her early influence instilled in me a profound appreciation for artistry and craftsmanship, nurturing a fire within me that burns brightly to this day. I am forever grateful for her unwavering belief in my abilities and for the doors she opened, allowing me to embark on this transformative journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

Website: https://www.hyunsekim.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/private__gray/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hyunse-kim-41985b179/

Other: Vimeo – https://vimeo.com/724693082

Image Credits
Designer – Hyunse Kim @private__gray Photo/Video – Cassie Zhang @cassiezyz Model – Émile Woon @woonoow Stylist – Jooyoung Kim @by_jooyoung Makeup – Coco Zhu @cocozhumakeup Hair – Daniel J Lutz @daniel.lutz.hair Photo Assistant: Yuhua Wang @yuhuaww Stylist Assistant – Kyungeun Park @kyungeun_eeeee Assistant – Jungwoo Jo @jungwoo___jo