Get in My Closet: Interview with Alice Yim

Lucia Blouse & Adora Skirt

Josefina Dress

Lucia Blouse & Adora Skirt in taupe/eggplant

Ariana Coat

Fall is almost upon us! 

And there is no better time to bring back my interview series, this time with NYC based designer Alice Yim.

Alice Yim created her first collection in 2007, after freelancing and honing her craft for such names as Michael Kors and Private Label Geoffrey Beene.  Since its debut with knitwear, the line and Yim's offerings, have expanded into full collections of structured separates offered at stores across the country.  Locally you can find some of Yim's wares at Lit Boutique, though the current collection is also available online (here).

Alice Yim's collection for fall 2012 continues the minimalist, feminine and edgy core values of the line, this time with lace cut outs, leather buckles and a sleek silhouette.

The stand outs for me are the Lucia blouse- flowy sleeves topped with peek-a-boo lace inserts, Adora skirt, pencilled in with leather, and Ariana coat, perfectly flowy and polished. There is a glam element to her latest pieces that is right on target for all the on trend retro influences (Gatsby & Downton Abbey alike). Likewise,  Yim hit the mark with deep plum and mossy green hues through out.

I had the pleasure of meeting Alice last year during fashion week and, as you'll be able to tell from her answers below, she is sweet, succint, smart, while being equal parts humble and cool.

The latest line is big on lace and leather inserts/detailing along with a mix of knitwear and refined separates. Any particular inspiration for this collection?  

Free-spirited and whimsical, the Autumn/winter 2012 collection draws inspiration from the rendezvous between Bohemian girl and Spanish Bullfighter.

How do you gather ideas for each line? What was your design process for fall 2012?  

Inspiration has to come naturally to me.  While designing the AW12 line, I was traveling through Europe and Asia.  A lot of elements I came across during my travels were incorporated into the Fall line.  

Who are your biggest influences design wise?  Hussein Chalayan for sure.  I also really admire Karl Lagerfeld and Alexander McQueen.   

You just celebrated your second anniversary, congrats! Any words of wisdom you would give to aspiring designers about the launch process and what it takes to be successful?  

Design for your target audience and don't compromise on quality.  Marketing and PR is the key to any successful business and don't forget, creativity goes a long way, but you need to have someone that can handle the business side. 

Starting your own line is such a leap of faith- how did you finally make this big decision?  

It was really an inner calling.  I have such a passion for design, I couldn't imagine doing anything else.  

Who is your ideal customer?  An independent and confident women who loves classic design but isn't afraid to be the first to try something new.  

If you weren't designing what would you be doing?  

I love volunteering.  It's really important to me to educate people about authentic Chinese Culture.  I'm also really interested in the PR/Marketing and Chinese Antiques.

How does designing you own label differ from working for a large corporation (such as Michael Kors and Private Label Geoffrey Beene)?  

When working for others, it's about designing for someone else's vision.  Which is great, it gives you the opportunity to learn and grow as a designer.  When designing your own label, it's about you setting the direction to see your own vision come into fruition. 

What is the stand out piece from your latest collection? And when will it be available?

The Lucia Blouse, Adora Skirt and Dalia Dress have all received really wonderful feedback.  The styles will be available in stores in September 2012.  

And finally, any hints on what you are working on for Spring 2013?  

Well, what I can tell you is that we have some beautiful prints coming your way for Spring/Summer 13, lots of interesting new silhouettes for dresses and updates to some of your favorite Alice Yim pieces.

5 Questions with MPCC

Two dinner guests, dead or alive, you would most like to entertain?  

Michelangelo and Hussein Chalayan – I think it would be very interesting to discuss how Michelangelo turned his art into fashion and how Hussein Chalayan turns fashion into art.   I would also love to hear about how Michelangelo drew inspiration for the Swiss Guards at the Vatican.

Macaron or cupcake? Or the new buzz pastries, cannelle, or whoopie pie?!  

Macaron for sure.  Crepes are a different story though….  

Last major purchase you made?  

Helmut Lang criss-cross back black cocktail dress.  I love how simple and elegant it is, while still being understatedly sexy.

Song currently on repeat?  

Lights Ellie Goulding (Bassnectar Remix), Endlessly by Muse.

Favorite Halloween costume you wore as a child?  

We don't celebrate Halloween where I grew up, in Hong Kong.  But, since moving to the states, my favorite costume has been a 1920's flapper.