Collective Habit is a new online store launching November 7th out of San Diego. I love the concept as the owner explains she couldn’t afford what she LOVED so she ended up buying mediocure things to fill her wardrobe. Can you relate? Uh, yeah! This online shop is supposed to solve that problem with amazing stylish pieces all ranging from $25 to 200. And, even better, they are offering Style Wax Poetic readers 15% for the first week – yes, please!
The promo code for 15% off the first week (Nov. 7 -14th) is STYLEWAX15
Collective Habit Owner Kimberly Lim
I had the chance to interview Kimberly Lim, the owner of Collective Habbit, and find out a little more about the store, along with a few sneak peak of her favorite pieces.
SWP: Why did you start the store?
First off I should say that I totally agree with you that fashion is an artistic expression… I think it’s one of the most expressive art forms out there. I never had a burning desire to start a business, but almost a year ago I was sitting in my closet full of clothing racks and shoes, and I realized that I was totally uninspired by what I was looking at. I felt like the lack of options here in SD and the fact that I couldn’t afford a lot of what I liked online was getting in the way of me expressing myself to the fullest –instead of investing in pieces I really loved, over the years I had built a collection that was just mediocre—and I found that to be totally unacceptable. I knew there were probably a thousand other girls who were in the same predicament … so I decided to do my own thing.
Matiko Madison Wedge Boot $220
SWP: What’s your background before this?
I studied product development at FIDM and my BA is in literature and writing. I have a background in e-commerce, fashion writing, graphic design, and styling. So the e-commerce thing was a natural move, once I made up my mind to open a store.
SWP: Where did you shop before this?
At the mothership, LF. And I love me some Zara and good basics from American Apparel. I also did my share of online shopping… there are some really great sites out there, but the problem with a lot of online stores is that either I can’t afford the pieces or the quality is crap.
Belle Style Triangle Tassle Necklace $89
SWP: What’s your personal style?
It’s sophisticated and comfortable with an edge. I really love oversized pieces that are simple, beautiful, and well-made. I hate fuss and messy layers –for me getting dressed involves pulling on a big chunky knit and something skinny on the bottom, and adding super high heels or wedges. And I can’t say enough about menswear influences –button-downs, oxfords, rolled trousers… I love a great blazer.
SWP: What are some of the things that excite you about Fall/Winter Trends.
I am soo excited for fall (always am, even though it hardly ever gets cold enough in SD to really pile on the heavier fabrics), there’s some really good stuff coming our way this season. I’m particularly excited about all the 70s glam—big fuzzy fur/faux jackets and vests, all the rich leather and sequins…
SWP: What are some of your favorite pieces coming into the store for the launch?
We have lots of amazing jewelry pieces and killer shoes for the launch, and some really great apparel too. Some of my favorite pieces are the Keiko Dress from Kucoon (nice feature, by the way!), the Madison wedge boot and the Sina oxford from Matiko, a beautiful, classic gray poncho from Yoon, and practically every piece of jewelry from Belle Style (some vintage, totally glam).
Yoon Osiris Poncho $185
SWP: Fav designers?
There are a lot of great contemporary designers coming out of Asia and Australia these days, but in terms of the well-known designers: Karl Lagerfeld (who can do no wrong and I love what he does for Chanel each season), Phillip Lim, Stella McCartney, Alexander Wang, Phoebe Philo’s Chloe, Elie Saab, Yigal Azrouël, Haider Ackermann… and I love me some Rachel Zoe.
