EXCLUSIVE: Irene Kim of IRENEISGOOD Talks Vans Collab and Individuality
The vibrant footwear and apparel capsule is all about individuality.
Designer Irene Kim founded IRENEISGOOD in 2018 with one mission in mind — to empower people to stay true to themselves. The brand’s latest endeavor is a footwear and apparel partnership with Vans which includes a SK8-Hi Tapered Stackform and UA Authentic 44 DX alongside an oversized cardigan, tees, sherpa jackets, leggings and a matching bralette.
We spoke to Irene Kim regarding the collection and her overall design ethos. Keep reading for our exclusive Q&A and shop the IRENEISGOOD x Vans collaboration via Vans and select retailers.
IRENEISGOOD is centered around individuality, can you explain why that message is so crucial to you as a designer?
This message is important because fashion is a very personal connection. I feel like it’s important to make sure you stay true to yourself no matter what others tell you to do or not to do.
Can you tell us a bit about how the Vans partnership came to be and why you selected these specific silhouettes?
The partnership with Vans happened very organically. I was always a huge fan of Vans and their message and it aligned with the IRENEISGOOD message. I chose a range of silhouettes that are oversized and cozy but still have that colorful flair that can add a playfulness to your everyday look. I also had so much fun designing each shoe with the Vans creative team because they gave me so much freedom to really have fun with all the colors and fabrics. From the color changing rainbow beads and the clear sole and the high tops, and the ombré velvet we used for the Authentics was also developed together.
You are quoted as saying “it’s not about what you’re wearing, but who you are when you’re wearing it.” How do you hope people feel in this collection? How did that reflect in the design process?
No matter what you’re wearing its always about how you feel and what kind of energy you want to give off. It’s a colorful fun feel good collection so I hope it brings a little positive energy to people that wear it.
