ISSUE 60: Irene Kim
ISSUE 60: Irene Kim
And 7 Korean Designers You Need To Know
THE YELLOW PAGES is a newsletter recommending Asian films, music, writing, and other inspiration — all the artsy things I wished for growing up!
I have been reading
for a little while now, written by Canadian stylist (who you can work with directly via her Toronto-based fashion consultancy firm La Closette). Obviously she is a whiz at putting together outfits. Just take a peep at her IG feed:
For those of you read my other Substack blog GEN X TASTE you know I’m very into the nostalgic story and feelings behind what we wear — especially from adolescence. Irene recently had me on her Substack talking about the oldest piece of clothing I still own. Check it out here!
Below, Irene shares her list of seven Korean designers you should know about. Plus, my list of recommendations beyond the paywall.
P.S. — Any fictional podcast fans? I play “Jessica Suzuki” the new scifi show ELUCIDITY which just dropped this week and was created by a whole bunch of Asian/AAPI talent. The show co-stars Dante Basco, who I’m sure many of you already know and love, and the writing team includes creator Koji Steven Sakai, Isabelle Liang, and Cheryl Tsai Perez. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — would love your help in spreading the word by rating/review it!
Name/Pronouns:
Irene Kim (she/her)
Where are you?
Toronto, Canada
What do you do?
Fashion consultant / personal stylist
How do you identify?
Korean-Canadian
7 Korean Designers You Need To Know
The affiliate links used below in this post are all Irene Kim’s; if you choose to purchase something via her links, she may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
ROKH
I learned about Rokh when I purchased one of their trenches a few years ago, and have kept an eye on the brand ever since. When I look at the line, it’s fundamentally composed of classic separates — with a particular affinity for the trench motif — cut and embellished in interesting and modern ways. Right up my alley. Led by Rok Hwang, the London-based brand is available on Rokh’s website, SSENSE and LN-CC, among others. (Just in time for sale season!)
What caught my eye: I’m forever drawn to sweetheart neckline bustiers!
ASHLYN
I discovered New York-based ASHLYN on a trip to Korea last summer and I became obsessed. Besides making stunning clothing, notably, the label operates on a zero-waste policy and prioritizes low-impact natural fibres including linen, organic cotton and wool. Led by creative director Ashlynn Park, you can find ASHLYN on the brand’s website and La Garconne.
What caught my eye: Basically the entire S/S 2024 collection?! I. AM. OBSESSED.
KIMHĒKIM
Founded by Kiminte Kimhekim, Seoul-based brand KIMHĒKIM is known to send dramatic works of art down the runway, but don’t let that deter you from popping into the brand’s Cheongdam flagship store or visiting their website because they also make a lot of wearable, everyday pieces. You can find KIMHĒKIM on the brand’s website, SSENSE and Farfetch.
What caught my eye: This long, oversized leather jacket I tried on was so buttery soft! And this way-out-of-my-budget ruched pearl top is stunning.
Wooyoungmi
Youngmi Woo is one of the OGs of Korean fashion, launching her menswear brand Wooyoungmi in Paris way back in 2002. Now, that doesn’t sound like a long time ago, but the Korean cultural landscape has changed immensely in 20 short years, and Woo was, and continues to be, one of the main figures shaping the perception of Korean fashion globally. In 2020, Wooyoungmi expanded into womenswear, and is available on the brand’s website and on SSENSE.
What caught my eye: SSENSE’s curation of the brand’s most wearable pieces (almost all on sale).
BONBOM
Launched by designed Bonbom Jo in 2020, BONBOM is another brand I discovered on my scouting trip to Korea last summer. I’m trying to pinpoint the vibes I’m getting from this brand, but all that keeps popping into my mind is Rihanna and Hailey Bieber wearing these outfits (can you see it?). There are specific fashion references I know are in these pieces, but I’m drawing a blank right now. When they come to me, I’ll drop them in the comments. BONBOM is available on the brand’s website and SSENSE.
What caught my eye: This oversized short-sleeve blazer jacket.
LVIR
LVIR is a favourite brand of mine for its easy every day wear, and I’ll keep bugging the brand to re-launch my all-time favourite reversible cloque dress again. Co-founded in 2016 by Jiyoung Ahn and WonSub Lee, the brand is available on the brand’s website, Farfetch and SSENSE, among others.
What caught my eye: This single-button slit sleeve blazer.
Amomento
Founded in 2016 by Lee Mee-Kung, Amomento is another brand I have turned to for modern everyday, foundational pieces. Expecg minimalist wardrobe staples in a neutral palette made from sustainable fabrics sourced from Korea and Japan. You can find Amomento on the brand’s website, SSENSE, La Garconne and Assembly New York.
What caught my eye: Their perennial curved leg pant is a go-to.
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