As Isabel Marant, one of the most celebrated French designers, opened her second boutique in Hong Kong, we took the chance to learn more about her personal style and design philosphy
French fashion designer, Isabel Marant, recently launched her second boutique in Hong Kong to collective gasps of glee from women in the city. Her eponymous label has reached an almost cult-like status for being effortless and sexy. Located on Ice House Street in Central, the new store’s interior contrasts natural wooden fittings with industrial concrete walls and floors. The surrounding racks showcase her tempting latest collection comprising tie-dye prints, quilted denim and oversized-knits in a palette of blues, creams and mauves.
“I’m always attracted by colours especially for summer because you are coming out of grey winter. You want to have a more joyful garment,” says Marant clad in a sporty red t-shirt, snake print pencil pants (both from her collection) and a green vintage military over-shirt (that she bought at a flea market when she was 16). It’s this flirty tomboy image that she is famous for.
We meet Alexander Wang as he arrives in Hong Kong to open his first boutique on Canton Road here.
Marant recommends pairing chic heels with athletic looking attire to achieve her casual slash sophisticated style. Her pumps embellished with strappy chains will help you own this look. In contrast, the designer’s blue tie-dye high-top sneakers provide a funky and street-smart edge. Each piece is a labour of love for Marant who is not afraid to mix shapes, cuts and textures.
Her fabrics were weaved using traditional handlooms, and fringes of selected garments have been painstakingly teased-out using combs. “I’ve got a little laboratory in my studio where we are trying a lot of things like stitching, knitting and washing,” she says. Highlights from the new shop include cut-out tank tops, Rajasthani-inspired embroidered jackets and patchwork designs.
In the video above, Marant tells us the personified story of her new collection and we ask about her favourite colours and styles, and how we should pair with her collection.
Videography by Tyrone Wu