Cynthia Kim: Founder of Love Classic
Meet Cynthia Kim, the founder of Love Classic, a brand with the most stylish socks you’ve ever laid eyes on! Cynthia’s fashion journey began at Parsons in New York City. After graduating, she decided to stay in Manhattan to experience what it would be like working in the industry and life in the city!
After later moving out to LA, Cynthia was able to see the unique differences from the two cities, and her appreciation for fashion and apparel grew. Starting her own company had been a dream of her’s from a very young age. When a small window of opportunity appeared, she took it, and Love Classic was born.
Cynthia and her brand feel strongly about giving back to the community. For every pair of purchased socks, the company will donate a pair to a shelter that helps women escape homelessness, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
Learn more in our interview with Cynthia below!
Our Interview with Cynthia Kim, Founder of Love Classic
What should people know about Love Classic? And why are you passionate about it?
Love Classic was started with the idea to create products that would be more lighthearted and uplifting, whether it’s a gift for a friend or that perfect addition for your outfit to feel complete.
My passion and reason why I’ve invested so much time and energy into this company have been fueled by developing an entire story from start to finish. It’s been an exciting process, and I hope to grow this company further!
What’s the story behind the name “Love Classic” and how did you decide on your company’s branding?
The vision behind the branding is to create a complete lifestyle look, to show that it’s not just about socks! It’s more about how these socks can be a part of the different aspects of your life and lifestyle.
The brand name just happened one day spontaneously, and it all clicked. When I sketched out the logo, that’s when I knew this was the name I wanted to proceed with.
Tell us a little bit about the partnership you have with Doorways, and why is it an important partnership for Love Classic?
Doorways was another spontaneous encounter. Starting Love Classic, I knew from the very beginning that I wanted to give back. Once the company was ready to set up a program designed to give back continuously, starting from a local place felt right because I grew up in the area.
When I came across Doorway’s website, their mission statement stuck and couldn’t shake it off for days. That’s when I decided to reach out. They greeted me with such a warm, friendly welcome that it left a lasting impression.
The reason why Doorways became important in our giving back program is that I wanted women to know that there’s always a way out of any bad situation. You don’t have to feel hopeless, abandoned, or stuck.
Tell us about your product development – from the initial idea and sketches, through sourcing, and production.
Our product development process is one of the most important and lengthy processes we have!
Everything begins with concept boards. I love starting any developments with boards because it’s an easy way to see the whole picture in one place.
From there, the design begins taking into consideration fabrics, colors, and silhouettes. As each design is finalized with all of the necessary details, the actual sampling process starts with our oversea manufacturers.
How has the COVID-19 climate affected Love Classic? Have you had to pivot or rethink your strategy at all during this time?
The majority of the company didn’t have to pivot; however, I did have to rethink the launch of my apparel expansion. With all of the closures happening worldwide, my launch was being delayed and clouded by the pandemic’s uncertainty.
What does your day-to-day look like – and what you love most about what you do?
My day-to-day always varies depending on the needs of my company and what needs to be accomplished. The one thing that forever remains the same is my mornings!
I always brew myself a cup of coffee first thing, then get ready for a workout or yoga, and then a bit of quiet time. After that, my workday begins with emails!
The part I love the most is the process and being able to see everything come to life.
What does success mean to you?
Success is when you’re happy and comfortable with who you are and where you are in your life. Financial stability, home life, friendships, etc. Most importantly, when nothing can shake that!
How do you practice self-care?
Self-care is something I value the most and notice a drastic change in my life when I neglect it. The major ones I’m always focusing on are getting plenty of sleep every night, eating healthy and well-balanced, and exercising regularly. Some are more difficult to keep up with at times, so I’ll block out a chunk of time beforehand in my calendar, filling it with hobbies, brunches, movies, etc.!
If you could go back and give yourself three pieces of advice when you first started Love Classic – what would you tell yourself?
So many things, but if I had to choose three pieces of advice, it would be:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!
- Trust your instincts more
- And believe in myself more!
What’s next for you both and for Love Classic?
I’m really excited for about new expansion! I’ve been working on this apparel expansion since way before the pandemic! I’m glad it’s here.
Be sure to follow Cynthia Kim and Love Classic online at the following links:
- Love Classic Website: https://www.loveclassic.com
- Love Classic Instagram: @loveclassic_com
Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.
Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com
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