Angela Kim
Angela Kim is an accomplished design lecturer and lead designer based in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. A graduate of Otis College of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design, she has built a distinguished career in apparel design with expertise spanning product development, technical design, and creative direction. Fluent in both English and Korean, Angela combines her cross-cultural insight with her deep understanding of design to inspire innovation and excellence in every project she undertakes.
With over a decade of professional experience, Angela has held key positions across leading fashion brands, including serving as Head Designer for The Workroom LA and Lead Designer for Pistola Denim. Her comprehensive skill set includes trend forecasting, technical design, draping, pattern making, and digital visualization using tools such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CLO 3D. In addition to her design leadership, she has excelled in pre-production processes like mood board creation, merchandising sheets, and sourcing—bringing creative ideas to life from concept to completion.
Recently, Angela has embarked on an exciting new journey by founding her own brand, The Areum. The idea emerged as she reflected on what truly inspires her and represents who she is as a designer. The brand’s name, The Areum, is derived from the Korean word areumdaum (아름다움), meaning “beautiful.” In exploring the word’s deeper meaning—being true to oneself—Angela found the perfect expression of her creative philosophy. The Areum celebrates authenticity and individuality, aiming to present modern Korean goods and hair accessories that embody this sense of honest beauty. Although the brand is still in its early stages and just beginning to establish a presence on social media, it has quickly become her newest passion—one that excites and fulfills her more than anything else.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Angela is passionate about education and mentorship. As a design lecturer at Otis College of Art and Design, she is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of designers through hands-on teaching and real-world industry insights. She also volunteers as a mentor with Mentors for Change, supporting young creatives in achieving their career goals. Outside of work, Angela enjoys hiking, traveling, and exploring new creative pursuits. Her commitment to both artistic innovation and community empowerment defines her as a leader and role model in the fashion design industry.
• Otis College- Bricks, Clicks, and Learning Certificate of Completion
• Otis College of Art and Design - BFA
• Fashion Competition from Textile Association of LA- 2nd place winner (Nov. '09)
• Mentors for Change
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith and to God, who has guided and strengthened me throughout my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The department chair, during my time as a fashion student at Otis, encouraged us to learn from one another — to take the good qualities each person had and make them our own. I think that’s when I became eager to learn from everyone. I believe that having a mindset open to learning allows me to keep growing, becoming not only more capable in what I do but also a better person.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be genuinely excited about what you do. Stay ambitious and maintain a positive attitude in every situation. Be persistent, and let your passion drive you toward success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
My greatest challenge has been preparing to launch my own business while continuing to dedicate significant time to my work as an instructor. After spending 15 years in the fashion industry, I wanted to push myself further. While I’m still young and able to take risks, I decided to establish my own brand, The Areum, which specializes in modern Korean goods and hair accessories.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My greatest asset is that I always give my best in everything I do. When I commit to something, I do whatever it takes to make it work as promised. I’m honest, diligent, hardworking, and always eager to learn.