The Edit by
Irene Kim
Every month, Barrie invites a figure close to the brand to answer three questions: three adjectives to describe their style, three words that define Barrie, and three favourite spots from their list. And as a bonus: the bonus question!
This month, stylist Irene Kim (
@irene_kf
), born in Korea, raised in Canada and a recent arrival in Paris, takes on the challenge. Irene is also the author of the Substack newsletter
In Moda Veritas
and a contributing editor for
Marie Claire
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3 adjectives to describe your style?
I consider my style “timeless" in the sense that it can’t be pinned down to a specific point in time. It reflects a point of view that’s evolved over many years and continues to do so. My style is also relaxed, never too perfect or done up. Elegant and refined at the same time.
3 words to define Barrie?
Savoir Faire: the know-how that comes from expertise that has been passed through generations of makers. Timeless: style that is not bound by the taste of any one period. Luxurious: the immediate sensation I feel when I touch the garments.
Irene Kim
3 great Parisian spots to share?
I can’t go longer than a week without a Korean meal! In Paris, my favourite Korean restaurant is Happy Grill ( @happygrill.paris ) in the 15th. It’s filled with "real" Koreans, which is always a good sign, and the owner, who loves to tell me about the special dishes she creates.
Listener ( @listener_paris ). If you’re a music lover who appreciates high-quality sound, you’ll have the best time at this bar with private listening rooms for singles or groups of up to 20. Super friendly and knowledgeable owners.
Le Bois de Boulogne. So grateful for this enormous park with lakes, trails and places to sit and relax. I don’t know what I’d do without a refuge into nature multiple times a week!
The follow-up question: How has your Korean heritage influenced your style?
I moved to Canada when I was six, but at home we always stayed connected to our Korean roots through our community, our traditions, and gatherings centred around our food. I go back often, and every time I visit, I'm struck by how quickly the country evolves, especially when it comes to fashion.
In Korea, tradition and innovation exist side by side. This balance between heritage and modernity has shaped a fashion culture that is both deeply rooted and forward-looking. It's this contrast that I find so inspiring.
Irene Kim, photographed by
@louiswesterloppe
along the Seine in Paris.
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