Meet Kyle Denman | Fashion Designer & Artist

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

Hi Kyle, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
One piece of conventional advice that I disagree with is the notion that ‘failure is not an option.’ While I understand the intention behind this, I believe that failure is not only inevitable, but it’s also an essential part of the creative and entrepreneurial process. As a designer, I’ve faced my fair share of setbacks—collections that didn’t land the way I envisioned, business decisions that didn’t pan out, and moments where I questioned whether I was on the right path. But every ‘failure’ taught me something invaluable, whether it was about resilience, refining my craft, or learning to pivot in the face of unexpected challenges.

Instead of avoiding failure, I think we should embrace it as part of the journey. It’s through failure that we often learn the most about ourselves and our work. What really matters is not whether we fail, but how we get back up, adapt, and keep moving forward with the lessons we’ve learned. To me, failure isn’t something to fear—it’s an opportunity to grow. And I firmly believe that effort beats talent every time. No matter how talented someone is, it’s the relentless drive, hard work, and commitment that ultimately make the difference in achieving success. Talent can get you so far, but it’s consistent effort and dedication that carry you across the finish line.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a reflection of both my personal journey and my commitment to creating something that has meaning beyond just aesthetics. As a designer, I tell stories through my work, and each piece I create is imbued with my values—creativity, inclusivity, and social impact. What sets me apart from others is my ability to connect with people through fashion. I’m not just designing for the sake of style; I’m designing with purpose. I believe that fashion is an incredibly powerful tool for expression, and it can speak to both personal and societal narratives. My work celebrates individuality and diversity, embracing models of all sizes, ages, and abilities. Working with people who are often underrepresented in the fashion industry is something I’m incredibly passionate about. I want to create designs that make people feel seen, heard, and valued.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the recognition I’ve received for my commitment to both artistry and inclusivity. Being named International Fashion Designer of the Year in 2021 and featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2023 were monumental moments, but what truly excites me is the impact I’ve been able to have through my work. Whether it’s collaborating with diverse models or supporting Arts Bridging the Gap, the nonprofit I lead as Executive Director, I’m constantly reminded that my art can be a force for change. Arts Bridging the Gap has allowed me to work directly with young artists, helping them discover their voices and empowering them to pursue their creative dreams. It’s a reminder that fashion, while often seen as a glamorous pursuit, is also about building bridges and creating spaces for those who are often excluded.

Getting to where I am today professionally has not been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. There were countless moments where I doubted myself, especially in the early days. As someone who initially studied political science before making the leap into fashion, I often felt out of place in a highly competitive industry. But I knew I had something to offer, and I leaned into that gut feeling. I worked relentlessly, sacrificing sleep, time with friends, and stability, but all of that hard work paid off. The challenges were numerous—whether it was finding the right people to support my vision, navigating the complex world of fashion business, or dealing with rejection and criticism—but each obstacle was a lesson.

I learned that effort beats talent every time. While natural talent can give you a head start, it’s the relentless work ethic, the drive to improve, and the persistence in the face of adversity that make a difference. I also learned the value of community. No one does it alone. From the support of mentors to the collaborations I’ve had with incredible creatives and organizations like Arts Bridging the Gap, the people I’ve surrounded myself with have been essential to my success.

Looking back, I realize that every setback, every failure, and every challenge has shaped the designer I am today. And I wouldn’t change a thing. The key is to stay true to yourself, embrace your unique perspective, and always remember that your art has the power to make a difference.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that fashion is so much more than just clothes. It’s a vehicle for storytelling, for change, and for connection. My designs are a celebration of people and their stories, and my brand is grounded in the belief that fashion should be inclusive, empowering, and deeply personal. I hope my work inspires others to embrace their own individuality and feel confident in their own skin, no matter their size, shape, or ability. I want people to feel seen and represented in a way that’s meaningful.

Ultimately, my mission is to create social change through creativity and curiosity.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting LA, I’d want to give them the best of the city—its food, art, and nature. We’d start the day with a laid-back breakfast, then head to the beach to enjoy the ocean breeze and vibrant coastal energy. LA’s food scene is incredible, with everything from casual taco trucks to trendy cafes offering fresh, locally-sourced dishes. We’d spend plenty of time exploring different neighborhoods and trying new foods, whether it’s grabbing lunch at a local spot or enjoying fresh seafood by the water.

One of the best parts of LA is its thriving art scene. I’d take my friend on a tour of the many murals around the city created by my team Arts Bridging the Gap. The murals are more than just beautiful—they tell powerful stories and bring the community together. They’re a testament to the idea that art can create real change, and walking through these vibrant, thought-provoking pieces is always inspiring. We’d also visit a few of the city’s museums and cultural centers to get a deeper sense of LA’s creative spirit.

No visit to LA would be complete without spending time in nature. We’d hike through the city’s scenic trails, where we could take in panoramic views of the city, the mountains, and the iconic Hollywood sign. We’d walk through lush parks and gardens, enjoying the peacefulness of the outdoors. After some time in nature, we’d unwind by the beach, watching the sunset or simply relaxing on the sand, taking in the beauty around us.

By the end of the week, I’d want my friend to experience the perfect balance of LA’s food, art, and nature—showing them how the city’s creativity and natural beauty come together to make it a truly special place.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I want to give a massive shoutout to Bryan “Bryguy”. He has been a constant source of inspiration in my life. His belief in me, his quiet strength, and the way he leads by example have inspired me to push past my limits and remain true to my vision. His support has been unwavering, and I genuinely feel that the person I am today is a reflection of the love, encouragement, and guidance he has given me over the years. I learn from him every single day, and I’m incredibly grateful to have him in my life.

As the Executive Director of Arts Bridging the Gap, I have the privilege of working with a truly special group of people. The work we do through the nonprofit is deeply meaningful to me, as it bridges the gap between young people from under-resourced communities and the arts, giving them a platform to express themselves. I’ve learned so much from the talented artists, mentors, and especially the young people we serve. Their creativity, resilience, and passion for the arts have taught me more than I can put into words. Every day, they remind me of the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and the power of community in driving social change.

I also want to recognize the diverse models and collaborators who have been such an integral part of my design process. Working with individuals of all shapes, sizes, and abilities has not only helped me build a more inclusive brand but has also opened my eyes to the real-world impact of fashion. Their stories and perspectives constantly inspire me to create designs that go beyond aesthetics and speak to something deeper.

There’s also a special place in my heart for The Cheetah Girls—their empowerment, creativity, and confidence have always inspired me. The way they unapologetically embraced their individuality and used their talents to uplift others reminds me that success is about being authentic, owning your story, and supporting those around you. They’ve been a source of motivation for me, especially in challenging moments when I need to stay true to myself and my values.

Success is never a solo journey. It’s built on the efforts, support, and encouragement of those who believe in you and push you to be better. I’m fortunate to have an incredible network of people who have shaped me, and I’m truly thankful for all the love and guidance that’s helped me get to where I am today.

Image Credits
last image: Roy Nelson, @roynelsonphotos