Sooyeon Lim

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Sooyeon Lim ("SL") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

SL : I always loved art and design as a kid and fashion was always part of me. I studied Fashion Design at Parsons The New School for Design in New York and worked at many major fashion companies.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

SL : I am always thrilled to see the final outcome and the satisfied customer. I believe fashion is one of a way how people express themselves. Therefore, I wanted to become a designer and create clothing’s that can help customer’s to express their thoughts, urge and characteristics.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

SL : I decided to become a designer. I don't think one can be forced to become a designer as it requires a lot of passion.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

SL : I love designing womens wear and childrens wear. I love combining key elements between both category. In the future I want to explore more of sportswear and menswear!

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

SL : Every designer has its own unique style and for that they are already a legend! Just remember your design identity and artistic taste and don't designing!

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

SL : ability to create designs that are innovative yet simple!

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

SL : Number of factors come in to play in evaluating good design. First, it must solve people's problem. Secondly, I always see if the item attracts people's eye. I believe good design should always have a purpose and also should be visually pleasing. Lastly, I always think all the elements in a design should be balanced. If the silhouette is complexed and the color is also extremely vibrant then the deign looses its balance.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

SL : Good design makes everything better! Including the quality of people's life style.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

SL : For children in third world country! I want to create clothing that can make them feel special.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

SL : To establish and develop my label!

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

SL : I think it is love and passion for fashion. Also, never giving up on an idea!

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

SL : Maria Grazia Chiuri and Karl Lagerfeld! The way how Maria Grazia plays with color and fabric is absolutely fascinating and inspiring. I was devastated when I heard Karl Lagerfeld passed away. His life was just about fashion and his passion never burned out.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

SL : All the Dior collections designed by Maria Grazia. she does an amazing job combining different elements and make it look balanced!

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

SL : My family, friends and everyone who supported my designs.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

SL : I am able to capture majority's needs

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

SL : to have loyal customers who share the same vision

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

SL : I am satisfied with most of my projects and I never release or showcase anything if I am not pleased

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

SL : about three to six months

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

SL : I start sketching and experimenting on my mannequin

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

SL : Design garments that can elevate people's life style. Carry responsibility.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

SL : the softwares I use and I have my eyes on new fabrics that are created with technology.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

SL : Pencil, sketchbook, gouache, adobe illustrator, adobe photoshop. sewing machine, mannequin, and fabrics.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

SL : Everything! these are one of the key factors to a good design

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

SL : when is the next collection?

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

SL : Pleasure and respect!

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

SL : I don't think I am a master but I never give up on a design.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

SL : Coco Chanel! I believe she altered the concept of womenswear!

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

SL : I am so excited and honored!

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

SL : I literally love all the colors but adore pastel colors! I love the ocean and love ice-cream. All seasons are special in their own way!

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

SL : Sketching. Whenever I have an idea I always sketch or record.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

SL : as a child it wasn’t important to me to become a "great" designer. I just wanted to play with fabrics

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

SL : world controlled by technology

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

SL : Please follow sooyeonlim_ny for any design updates! I am also open to any questions! email me @ info@sooyeonlimny.com