Based in Los Angeles, Filosofia is an apparel company that emphasizes “sustainability, quality, and timeless comfort”.
Creating ready to wear apparel in the U.S.A. and in South Korea using ethically sourced materials such as linen, organic cotton, silk and tencel, Filosofia encourages consumers to support the slow fashion movement rather than the fast fashion model by purchasing quality over quantity pieces that are meant to be cherished and worn for years.
Setting Mind interviews Sofia Kang, a designer, mother to two, and the founder of Filosofia.
Setting Mind: How did you first get into the world of design and apparel making?
Sofia Kang: I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in fashion. Ever since I was in high school I was always concerned about how I dressed and I was also the only one in my group of friends that would peruse fashion magazines and booklets.
After graduating high school I immediately applied to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, more commonly known as FIDM. After graduating from FIDM, I began working in the Fashion District of Downtown Los Angeles at the age of 21.
How would you describe Filosofia’s garments?
Comfortable, effortless chic. I want the women who wear our clothing to feel as beautiful as they are comfortable. With our timeless designs and meticulously selected fabrics, I believe Filosofia can provide our customers with that feeling.
What is the design process?
The design process is happening continuously. I am inspired constantly by other designers, images, and simply people watching. I keep a notepad with all the ideas that stick with me and most of my designs come from there. These ideas are incorporated into a mood board, which is where my styles are finalized. Once I have a style in mind I carefully pick the fabric that will compliment my design the most. Then we make go into sample production to see if my design looks and feels as amazing as I thought.
What kind of strategies are you implementing to ensure the garments are created sustainably?
We only use fabrics that will have the least amount of impact on our environment. We are also constantly keeping up with new ideas in sustainability by going to forums and researching.
What is the vision of the fashion industry in 50 years?
I believe that the fashion industry will realize that the materials that most companies require for production are not sustainable. This will cause a shift towards more sustainable sources. In fifty years, with issues like climate change, it is possible that the government will step in and set regulations against non-sustainable products in order to protect our environment.
What is in store for the future of Filosofia?
Filosofia’s mission is to spread the idea that fashion, comfortability, and sustainability can go hand in hand. We hope to be able to open a brick and mortar store so that our customers can come in and experience what Filosofia is all about.
To learn more about Filosofia, click the link below.
