7 Questions for Phillip Lim

Its been one of the most anticipated collaborations of the season, possibly the year. And finally, Phillip Lim for Target will be available to the public September 15. The designer, known for his cool contemporary wear with feminine shapes and modern patterns, has created a capsule collection for retailer Target that emodies his aesthetic—and even features pieces that closely resemble those on his 3.1 Phillip Lim runway. He answers our questions by email.

We’ve heard that Target courted you for a capsule collection for a long time! Why did you initially hold off on designing the collection? And why did you decide to do it now?

When Target first approached me five years ago, neither of us was ready. The timing just wasn’t right. This time, it felt right for me and my own company and what we had to offer.

What was the biggest challenge designing the collection for Target? How was the experience different than designing the 3.1 Phillip Lim line?

It was an exciting challenge to make sure my imprint and aesthetic remained front and center with this collection. Overall the process is very similar, because it hinges on the investment of time. In the end I put the same amount of passion, energy, spirit, creativity, and time into designing a $29.99 shirt that I would a shirt that costs $299.

You cite a lot of your classics in this collection. What was the inspiration for it?

My collection for Target was inspired by the concept of “night to day.” I wanted to create a collection of chic and versatile pieces that modern women and men can wear on the go while remaining effortlessly chic. I focused on the idea of a romanced reality and having clothing and accessories for this romance.

Why did you break up the pieces for people to wear at morning, noon, and night? Who changes clothes that often?

We all have to fit so much into our lives these days. We live multifunctional, multidimensional lives, and I wanted to create the core of a day’s wardrobe—what you might need to take you from day to night and day to day.

Any suggestions for intrepid Target shoppers who want to bag some of your merchandise?

Get there early!

One person you WISH would wear Philip Lim for Target:

I hope there is something in there for everyone! So no one person.

Four things you can’t live without right now:

(1) My iPad. I am not very tech-inclined, so the iPad works well to stay in touch with what’s going on in the studio.

(2) Diet Coke with ice.

(3) Iced black coffee.

(4) My dog, Oliver.