FASHTALKS WITH PAPAYA AND BAMBOO

Did you always know you wanted to be a designer? Why or Why not?

As a child, I spent my weekends painting silken scarves and crafting pins to sell them on flea markets. But as my parents taught me to choose a proper job, that allows me to support a family, I didn't dare to choose that profession. Nonetheless, I didn't want to give up the designing and crafting and made jewelry in my free time.

What was your first job out of college, and how did you land that position?

After receiving my degree in economics, I started as a specialist for a communications company. I had previously worked for the company as an intern and liked the variety of tasks and topics in the communications department. Luckily, there was a vacancy, and they gave me the job!

"Being surrounded by people from all over the world with different vitas and extraordinary life stories opened my horizon."

What inspired you to create your own brand? 

Moving to Hong Kong! Being surrounded by people from all over the world with different vitas and extraordinary life stories opened my horizon. Suddenly things that I never dared to dream of seemed possible.

What was your previous work experience before launching your brand?

I always liked building something from the scratch – laying out a corporate magazine, planning events and shaping the intranet and extranet presence of the company I worked for. Moving forward, I worked for a big insurance company as a spokesperson for HR topics, which fascinated me as I received insight into the diversity of jobs and the people working there.

If you could do something different before starting your business, what would it be?

Studying or living abroad; I regret not having done this earlier. For me, it was such an eye-opener to dive into a new culture and experience how diverse people, lifestyles and professions could be.

What was the toughest circumstance you overcame when just starting out your business? 

My fear of failing! From my perspective, the only way to overcome this is to love your job from the bottom of your heart! In the beginning, this was what kept me motivated!

What is one thing you look for when interviewing a potential candidate for your company?

A smile!

"I believe fashion can be very stylish as well as timeless!"

Do you feel working in the fashion industry is different today than from when you started out? Why or why not?

In my opinion, the fashion industry has changed a lot. Where did creativity and the love for fashion go? Seeing mostly pale, muted colors and wide, bulky shapes makes me sad! I believe fashion can be very stylish as well as timeless!

How important is social media to your brand?

It is the place to be! If there is one thing we can learn from China, it is the widespread use of social commerce! My neighbor even considers moving back to Shanghai because her life was so convenient with all the apps and online services! Today, more than 1 in every 4 dollars are spent online in China! So let's dive into it – the journey has just begun!

What direction do you believe the fashion industry is headed?

I believe virtual reality shopping will gain importance over the next few years. Once VR tools are advanced enough, customers will love and adapt to the new shopping experience. Not to mention we will enjoy receiving less returns!