How closely do you follow fashion?
Design Museum
I try to be always at the border of fashion, not in but not out. As a designer, I am keeping up with the trend of fashion, but more importantly, the society. I need to always be aware of what might be the philosophy of “beauty” in people’s mind nowadays.
Qionger Jiang
Do you read a magazine on a regular basis?
Design Museum
Yes, mostly during travel.
Qionger Jiang
Do you consult fashion blogs?
Design Museum
Not too much. I would say inspirations come in uncertainty. It could pop up at any moment of life, as long as you keep your eyes and hearts open.
Qionger Jiang
When did you become aware of fashion?
Design Museum
At the age of 12, maybe? I am not sure whether “fashion” is a right term for a 12 years old. I prefer saying “being aware of beauty.”
Qionger Jiang
How would you describe your relationship with clothes?
Design Museum
They are my friends who are with me everyday.
Qionger Jiang
When did you develop your own ‘style’ - do you feel that you have one?
Design Museum
Yes, Shang Xia style , which is pure but sophisticated , Chinese but modern, cool but warm.
Qionger Jiang
What is your basic 'look'?
Design Museum
Clean and pure , the look that I can feel myself. I can be myself.
Qionger Jiang
Do you have a preference for particular shapes, colours, fabrics or textures?
Design Museum
My preference of colour could be black, red, white. Regarding that of textures, I would say cashmere, silk, and cotton.
Qionger Jiang
Who are your favourite designers and why (historical and contemporary)?
Design Museum
My 94 years old grandma is my favourite and all-time “idol.” The elegance she presents is not only from the clothes she wears, but more vitally also comes from her heart.
Qionger Jiang
Do you use a personal shopper?
Design Museum
How much do you involve your partner in clothes buying?
Design Museum
Twice per year.
Qionger Jiang
What percentage of your income goes on clothes purchases annually?
Design Museum
Very little.
Qionger Jiang
How many pairs of shoes or handbags do you have?
Design Museum
I do not know, and I do not want to know.
Qionger Jiang
How important is hair and make-up to you?
Design Museum
They are alright. To me, the most important is not hair and make up. It is the soul and heart that matter.
Qionger Jiang
Do you buy seasonally or when the need or mood dictates?
Design Museum
Mood dictates.
Qionger Jiang
Is there a difference between your public and private wardrobe - if so, what are the reasons behind this?
Design Museum
Not really different, as I am still myself.
Qionger Jiang
How do you view fashion and clothes in relation to your professional standing?
Design Museum
What matters to me is that fashion and clothes can’t stand alone without a touch of real life. As a designer, I observe constantly, and through it I discover my own standpoint of fashion. And then I apply it on my profession.
Qionger Jiang
To what extent does your professional role inform your fashion choices?
Design Museum
The goal of Shang Xia is to instill contemporary design in traditional craftsmanship and make it useful in life. Again, fashion is not only a statement but to convey the value of beauty. If I need an answer to this question, this might be it.
Qionger Jiang
Does fashion empower you? What outfit would most empower you and why?
Design Museum
Fashion does not play the role of empowerment. A “balanced” fashion can help us to be more beautiful and confident.
Qionger Jiang
What does fashion in the future need to do to help women / to empower them?
Design Museum
We may need to call it “ suitable fashion” or “ self fashion.” Everyone needs to find their own style and fashion, not following. Once you find your own fashion style, you are empowered. Not by fashion, but by your true self.
Qionger Jiang
