POPSUGAR: How do you continue to ensure that the 3.1 Phillip Lim brand is for everyone?
Phillip Lim: This brand was built on the idea of serving a global citizen. We have never isolated anyone from being a part of our community. I aim to create a space and clothing for people to feel confident and ignited. No one is perfect, we will keep aiming to be as inclusive as possible. This brand was built on value, passion, compassion, strength, and hard work – we hope that ethos flows through not only our garments but our presence as a brand. We also want to be a brand that stands for community and unity, one that brings people together and doesn't try to dictate who is in or who is out. The way we do this is to continue to constantly evolve not only with our products but also consistently using our platforms to represent and stand for humanity in all its colorful and diverse glory.
"We all need each other and we will be better as collaborators instead of competitors."
PS: What does your latest collection, LIVE FREE, stand for?
PL: This overall craving for community and togetherness. This past year was tough for so many, not only with the pandemic, but with the rise in violent hate crimes and attacks against the Asian community. I felt like we all just needed something to lean into to find hope. Each collection is inspired by a mantra, most recently the reminder to 'Be Present.' LIVE FREE to me is where I really feel the collection speaks through more than just clothing. We created this with the idea to live authentically, strip away the superfluous, so that we are empowered to exist in our own world. The freedom to live in the comfort of who we truly are – to live with purpose and ease.
PS: What advice would you give to a young fashion design student right now?
PL: Take a minute to slow down to figure yourself out, especially right now. Constantly adjust your expectations and align them to the values you hold true to yourself. Receive opportunities with gratitude and make the most of them. Don't wait for the ideal thing or the ideal scenario. Be like bamboo. Flexible in expectations, but firm in your focus. What we all understand from this moment especially is that everyone is connected but nothing is guaranteed. We all need each other and we will be better as collaborators instead of competitors. Figure out what is important to you and start carving out your role as part of a larger community.
