We picked the brains of fashion editors from major fashion publications who style their favourite looks, share their thoughts on Hong Kong designers and reveal their take on the latest trends
We invited Cherry Mui, Social Media Editor of Vogue Hong Kong, to style her favourite looks off the phygital runway of FASHIONALLY Collection #15 while sharing her insights on new fashion trends that have arisen out of the pandemic experience and voicing her support for Hong Kong designers.
Can you tell us about your looks?
I’m styling two looks, each from a different local designer. The first is a white skirt and double-layered top with cut-outs and draping by Charlotte Ng Studio, which I match with a pair of square-toed lace up boots. The design is feminine in itself, but she has executed it with neutral tailoring.
My other look is a bright fuchsia suit with a deep V from KEVIN HO, which I matched with a pair of flashy Giuseppe Zanotti high heels. The styles of the designers are very different, but they are both looks that I like very much.
What do you love about the items you are wearing?
I love suits, so I really like the top-to-bottom balance of Charlotte Ng Studio. The cut out top is a deconstruction of the suit. The shoulder part is a bit over-sized, with the waistline tightened with a string. The draped skirt becomes ruffles, which is soft and feminine, so I wanted to use the boots to make the whole look stronger and more balanced.
KEVIN HO’s dress is very feminine but also has a feel of a power suit. There is a clear buckle as embellishment and some black lines to form the waistline, which is both playful and glamorous. Being able to morph from a day to night look is very practical and something a modern woman would appreciate.
What are the major trends of Spring/Summer 2021?
Paris Fashion Week is still in progress, but we can already see that designers are expressing their observations on the pandemic. Now, people are paying more attention to functionality. The collections are in general smaller but more refined, and there aren’t many complex designs or flourishes. You can see warmer tones, earthy shades and bright colours inspired by nature, as well as many dresses and suits.
Another trend is sustainable development. Dolce & Gabbana has reworked fabrics from the archive into a new collection, and Marine Serre, who is famous for upcycling, has also made a collection using recycled fabrics. The styles of these designers are very different but they are all working towards sustainable development.
Thirdly there is the tendency to use very soft materials for functionality and comfort. You can see it with Marni’s knitwear or Versace’s use of pleating to achieve a soft effect. It feels comfortable but not too relaxed, so it’s still glamorous.
Finally there is minimalism with a twist. Sportmax and Ferragamo can be monotone from top to bottom but asymmetric cutting brings new ideas. Many brands have made their collection smaller, but it means you can now buy an item that can be easily matched with others. This is also how I recommend building your wardrobe instead of always chasing the latest trends.
What does supporting local fashion designers mean to you?
As a fashion editor, it’s always exciting to see new designers emerging. You always want to discover fashion talents outside of the big names. Young designers are willing to experiment or use new technologies. I saw designers at YDC doing in-depth research, such as going to Mainland China to uncover some handcrafted fabrics to make their collection. This level of care and dedication is truly noteworthy.
Hong Kong is a consumerist society so local designers are often ignored. However, these designers are real lovers of fashion and have lots of new ideas. Charlotte Ng Studio is so skilled at deconstruction, and Kevin Ho consistently plays with geometry while incorporating on-trend elements. Through various media outlets, including FASHIONALLY, we can build a community so that people from all over the world can familiarise themselves with these designers.
Copenhagen, which is not recognised as one of the world’s fashion capitals, has slowly established its voice through online sales platforms and social media. I think Hong Kong should definitely take a similar approach. Even though we are an international magazine, we have local editions that promote local creatives on the international stage. Consumers supporting local designers is equally important.
