Where do you position Hong Kong design on the international scene?
Hong Kong is an international city with a historical background. The city is the crossroads, where East meets West. It's a hub for international trade and cultural exchange. I think the fashion in Hong Kong is rising to a new level and I think Hong Kong has great potential to become the trend leader in Asia, even on the international stage. In recent years, HKTDC has organised many fashion activities to present designers' works and gain more global exposure, such as Centrestage, Juxtaposed Fashion and The Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest. Some of the Hong Kong designers have also been invited to participate in the New York and London Fashion Weeks. This can showcase Hong Kong's creativity to the world. There are many talented and passionate fashion designers here who have their ideas and messages to convey, but many lack the opportunity or the money to build up their own brand. [On the press tour for A Star is Born], Lady Gaga said something like, "There can be 100 people in a room and 99 don't believe in you – all it takes is one person." I believe every fashion designer in Hong Kong needs their own Bradley Cooper to make their dreams come true.
Reports of fashion brands closing shop have become more frequent as the coronavirus continues to batter retail sales in Hong Kong, meaning the shopping choice of fashion garments will be reduced. I think it may be a great chance for Hong Kong designers to develop their own brands and facilitate the development of the Hong Kong fashion industry. I believe the young fashion design students and designers can bring out the charm of the Hong Kong fashion arena and present it on an international platform.
What sort of customer are you targeting?
I love power dressing, and I want my women to look aggressive and independent. I want to build a new image of empowered women. I believe fashion is a type of armor and a protective layer for women. Therefore, my work is designed for strong, powerful and ambitious women. The age range for this collection ranges from 20 to 40 years old. They're successful women or celebrities, such as actresses, singers and fashion influencers. They're interested in art, fashion, photography, music and film. Their personality is probably persevering, passionate, polite and confident. Their lifestyles are artistic, comfortably edgy and aesthetically focused. They're addicted to feminine, romantic, elegant and bold styles. Alexander McQueen, Peter Do, Dior and Celine are their favourite brands to build their style.
