We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kyle Denman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kyle below.
Kyle, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me—whether as an Asian, gay, or adopted (or a combination!) individual—has been a challenging but ultimately empowering experience. Over time, I’ve learned to navigate these situations by leaning into my authenticity and embracing my unique perspective. When I first started out, it was hard to avoid the feeling of being “different” or not fully belonging. But I quickly realized that those moments of discomfort were actually opportunities to stand out, not shrink away.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to own my space. Instead of feeling the need to conform or downplay parts of myself, I’ve come to understand that my uniqueness is a strength. Being the only one who looks like me often means I bring a fresh perspective, one that challenges the status quo and adds something to the conversation that others might not have thought about. Whether it’s in the fashion world, nonprofit work, or any other space, I’ve learned that my perspective is valuable—and the more I embrace it, the more others will too.
Another thing that has been key is finding my voice—and using it. When I’m the only one in the room who shares my background, it’s easy to feel like I don’t have the authority to speak up or that my ideas aren’t as valid. But I’ve come to understand that every voice matters and that often, being different gives me a deeper sense of empathy and understanding. As a designer, I know that being able to tell my story authentically through my work resonates with others who may feel similarly. In those moments, I’ve learned that my voice is powerful—not only because of the insights I can share but because of the experiences that have shaped me.
I also surround myself with like-minded allies and mentors who understand the importance of representation and inclusivity. Having people who uplift and support me, whether in creative spaces or in professional settings, has been crucial to my success. It’s also allowed me to form connections with others who might not share my background but value the diverse perspectives I bring.
Ultimately, I’ve learned that being the only one in the room doesn’t have to mean being isolated or invisible. It’s an opportunity to be bold, to make room for others who might feel the same way, and to set a new standard for what’s possible. Over time, I’ve found that the more I embrace my identity, the more effective and successful I become—not just because of what I contribute, but because I’ve learned to value myself and my journey. So, when I’m the only one in the room, I stand tall, knowing that my uniqueness isn’t just a challenge to overcome—it’s a strength that others will come to admire and respect.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a fashion designer, storyteller, and advocate for inclusivity. At the core of my work, I’m focused on creating designs that empower people to express their authentic selves. As a gay, Asian, adopted individual, my personal experiences have always been deeply intertwined with my creative journey. My work is about more than just fashion—it’s about representation, self-expression, and using creativity to break down barriers.
What excites me the most about what I do is the ability to connect with people through my work. Fashion has always been a way for me to tell stories—whether they are deeply personal stories of identity, or broader narratives about belonging and empowerment. My designs are deeply influenced by my belief that authenticity is powerful, and that true beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and identities. I work with models of all sizes, genders, and abilities, creating pieces that challenge the narrow definitions of beauty in the fashion industry. My designs are made for people who don’t want to fit into a mold but want to celebrate who they are, no matter where they come from or how they identify.
In addition to my work as a fashion designer, I also serve as the Executive Director of Arts Bridging the Gap, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to providing access to arts and cultural experiences for underserved communities. One of our most impactful initiatives has been creating 115+ murals throughout Los Angeles, each of them designed by local artists and painted in collaboration with various communities. This initiative has been incredibly fulfilling, as it bridges my passion for both fashion and public art, and brings creativity into spaces where it can spark change, conversation, and connection. We believe art should be accessible, and through this work, I’ve been able to help elevate the voices of local artists while making art a tool for social transformation.
In terms of new projects, I’m excited to continue expanding my work through new collections that further explore themes of identity, cultural influence, and social impact. I’m also working on a new collaboration that will highlight inclusive design in a completely new way, focusing on how fashion can embrace diverse body types and needs in innovative ways. This expansion will allow me to reach more people and provide a platform for self-expression that is as diverse as the people who wear my designs.
Above all, what I want people to know about my work is that it’s not just about clothing. It’s about empowering people to feel seen and heard, and creating an environment where authenticity is not just encouraged but celebrated. I’m passionate about pushing boundaries, creating conversation, and making fashion—and art—more inclusive, more accessible, and more impactful. Whether through my designs, public art projects, or the work I do with Arts Bridging the Gap, my goal is to build a world where everyone feels they have the right to express themselves boldly, unapologetically, and authentically.
At the heart of everything I do is my mission to ignite a culture of change through creativity and curiosity. I believe that by encouraging people to embrace their creative potential and explore new perspectives, we can spark meaningful conversations and drive social transformation. Whether it’s through my fashion designs or the public art projects I lead, I aim to inspire others to think differently, challenge the status quo, and open their minds to new possibilities—creating a world that celebrates authenticity, diversity, and self-expression.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are lifelong learning, empathy and kindness, and creativity.
Lifelong learning has been essential for my growth. When I started in fashion, I didn’t have a traditional background in design, so I had to adopt a mindset of constant growth—whether it was through formal education, self-study, or learning from mentors and peers. Staying curious and open to new ideas, techniques, and experiences has allowed me to evolve in ways I never expected. I would advise anyone starting out in any creative field to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement. Don’t get discouraged by what you don’t know—invest time in learning new skills, absorbing knowledge, and surrounding yourself with people who inspire you. The more you learn, the more adaptable and innovative you’ll become.
Empathy and kindness have also been crucial to my journey. As an artist and designer, being able to connect with people on a personal level has helped me understand their needs, desires, and struggles, which in turn has made my work more meaningful. Empathy allows me to design with intention, whether it’s creating pieces that represent people’s identities or using fashion as a platform to raise awareness of social issues. In business and in art, kindness is also the foundation for building relationships and creating lasting connections. For those just starting out, my advice would be to stay grounded in kindness and to always make space for empathy. It will not only shape the way you connect with clients and collaborators, but it will also keep you rooted in your true purpose.
Lastly, creativity has been the lifeblood of my work. Fashion is my way of telling stories, challenging societal norms, and expressing personal truths. Creativity, for me, is about thinking outside the box and constantly pushing boundaries—whether it’s in design, problem-solving, or storytelling. If you’re just beginning your creative journey, my advice is to trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to experiment. Creativity thrives in exploration, so allow yourself the freedom to make mistakes, try new ideas, and take risks. The more you let your creativity flow freely, the more you’ll discover about your unique voice and style.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
There have been several key people who have played a significant role in helping me overcome challenges and develop the skills, qualities, and knowledge needed to be successful. However, one person who stands out the most is Bryan—”Bryguy.” His influence on my journey has been profound, both professionally and personally.
Bryan has been my rock—constantly supporting me when I faced self-doubt, helping me focus when I felt overwhelmed, and pushing me to take risks when I hesitated. His unwavering belief in my potential has not only bolstered my confidence but has also challenged me to grow in ways I didn’t think were possible. In many ways, he has been my biggest cheerleader and also my sounding board, offering fresh perspectives when I was stuck creatively or uncertain about a decision. Bryan’s sense of calm and safety has taught me to be more patient with myself and to trust the process, even when things don’t seem to be going as planned.
Beyond Bryan, I’ve had several mentors in the fashion industry who have guided me, from those who have helped me hone my design skills to those who have taught me the business side of the industry. Each of them offered a different kind of mentorship—whether it was learning how to navigate creative challenges, market my designs, or understand the nuances of client relationships. The combination of practical skills and emotional support from these mentors has been essential in helping me build a well-rounded foundation for my career.
I’ve also been deeply inspired by the artists I’ve collaborated with, particularly through my work with Arts Bridging the Gap. The artists and communities I’ve worked alongside have taught me invaluable lessons in collaboration, resilience, and the importance of community. Working with a diverse group of people who bring their unique perspectives and talents has pushed me to become a more open-minded and adaptable leader.
In short, I’ve been fortunate to have a strong support system—whether in the form of my partner, my mentors, or my creative collaborators—who have all helped me overcome obstacles and build the skills necessary for success. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping the person I am today, and I am endlessly grateful for their influence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kyledenmanfashion.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekyledenman/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UNChTbP5w4&t=4s
- Other: Arts Bridging the Gap: www.artsbridgingthegap.org
Image Credits
last image: Roy Nelson, @roynelsonphotos
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