Meet Kareem Arias León | Creative Director & Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kareem Arias León and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kareem, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking has been a cornerstone of my journey in the fashion industry. I view it as a 50/50 chance where you either succeed or learn from failure, but either way, new doors open, leading to fresh directions in your career. Over the past two years, I’ve had to make tough choices, often prioritizing my career over other aspects of life. It’s been a challenging path, saving every last penny while working a 9 to 5, but it’s also been rewarding. The progress I’ve made in such a short time is a testament to the power of taking calculated risks and trusting that the effort will pay off in the end.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a reflection of my journey, experiences, and the people who have influenced me along the way. What sets me apart is my ability to blend different creative elements—fashion, styling, directing—into something uniquely my own. I take pride in the way I can convey a story or emotion through a look or a set, and how I can bring various influences from my life into my work.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. Balancing a 9 to 5 job while pursuing my dreams in the fashion industry has been challenging. I’ve had to make sacrifices, choosing my career over other things, and at times, it felt like I was risking everything. But those risks have paid off. I’ve learned that nothing comes without hard work, persistence, and a willingness to take chances.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. The fashion industry can be exclusive and tough to break into, but I’ve learned to navigate it by staying true to my vision and being open to learning as I go. I’ve also learned the value of community and support—having people who believe in you can make all the difference.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it’s built on passion, creativity, and a deep respect for the art of storytelling. Every project I take on is a piece of my journey, and I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new creative directions. My story is one of persistence, creativity, and a belief that with hard work, anything is possible.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to show them an amazing time filled with unique experiences. We’d kick things off by going thrifting—one of my favorite activities. There are some great spots where we could find hidden gems and vintage treasures. Afterward, we’d hit up a flea market or head to a First Friday event, which always has good food and a relaxed, fun vibe.

For a day trip, I’d definitely take them to Sedona. The red rocks and natural beauty are breathtaking, and it’s the perfect place to unwind and take in some incredible scenery. If they’re up for something a bit different, we could visit Arcosanti, a fascinating urban laboratory in the desert that combines architecture with the environment.

In the evenings, we’d hang out at some of the coolest spots in town, like a downtown bar or a rooftop bar with great views. It’s all about creating a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a little bit of everything that makes the area special. I’d make sure they experience the best food, drinks, and sights, all while soaking in the local culture and vibe.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a lot of my success and creativity to my family, who have always been my biggest supporters. My mother, a multi-skilled woman I deeply admire, has been the source of many of the talents and skills I possess today. She’s the reason I approach my work with such creativity. My oldest brother played a huge role in shaping my sense of style, helping me develop a keen eye for brands and fashion details from a young age. I used to sneak pieces from his closet—something he wasn’t thrilled about back then—but now we share clothes without a problem. My second oldest brother introduced me to the creative side of nerd culture, from video games and anime to music, drawing, and even Star Wars. Being the youngest in the family, I’ve been fortunate to absorb a bit of inspiration from everyone, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usernamefounnd/

Image Credits
Photographers: (@umberto.luk) (@just_li_) (@ellierosephotog)