3.1 phillip lim

The 3.1 Phillip Lim brand was launched in 2005 by designer Phillip Lim and his business partner, Wen Zhou. Lim was born in Thailand in 1973 to Chinese parents who later immigrated to California. He studied finance in college but soon switched focus to home economics, gaining hands-on education in garment construction.

After graduating, Lim honed his skills working for designer Katayone Adeli before relocating to New York City. There, he co-founded the contemporary label Development which ran from 2001-2004. Ready for a new challenge, Lim partnered with entrepreneur Wen Zhou to debut his eponymous label at New York Fashion Week in 2005.

3.1 Phillip Lim was founded as an accessible luxury brand catering to the modern, cosmopolitan woman. Lim's aesthetic strikes a balance between classic tailoring and subtle touches of modernity. Clean lines, attention to fit, and impeccable construction characterize the ready-to-wear.

The brand gradually expanded its offerings to include menswear, footwear, accessories, and handbags. One of its breakout hits was the Pashli Satchel, a fashion-forward silhouette with zip gussets, top handles, and a foldover flap closure. The bag exemplified Lim's trademark blend of innovation and wearability.

Beyond high quality product, Lim and Zhou have committed 3.1 Phillip Lim to ethical initiatives like partnering with youth arts and education charities. In 2018 Lim also founded the community More Than Our Bellies to support food-related causes.

Phillip Lim maintains an active role as an advocate, author, and leader beyond his brand. He was honored in 2021 by Footwear News for dedicating his voice to the #StopAsianHate movement and fighting injustice. Lim also continues to use his platform to amplify marginalized communities.

After nearly 20 years in business, 3.1 Phillip Lim is now sold globally in over 12 countries. While the brand has evolved with the times, it remains devoted to Lim's founding vision of chic, everyday luxury for the modern woman and man. With ethical production and community impact core to its mission, 3.1 Phillip Lim is poised to continue thriving as an independent leader in global fashion.