The brand’s creative director tells us why he never settles for less and always stays true to his beliefs
Tatler Asia
Above Photos: Moses Ng/Hong Kong Tatler

Moiselle may have been started by Harris Chan’s parents, Boby and Shirley, in 1997 but it’s his creative touch that has helped elevate the brand’s reputation and given it a presence regionally and internationally.

The London College of Fashion graduate status as a fixture on the social scene has worked to his advantage as invitations to Moiselle’s fashion shows have become one of the hottest event tickets in town. This weekend, Harris is set to unveil Moiselle’s autumn winter collection in a highly anticipated fashion show, which is set to bring Central to a standstill and literally #StopTheTraffic as part of the brand’s 20th-anniversary celebrations.

In our latest edition of the Tatler 10 where we pose 10 questions to Hong Kong-based entrepreneurs about their business, we asked Harris about the challenges he’s faced over the years and  

 What does Hong Kong mean to you?

Hong Kong is my lovely home but it is also another word for “work” to me. Never have any holiday in Hong Kong!

Summarise your business in one sentence.

Moiselle was created in 1997 by my parents (Boby and Shirley Chan) and is both a local and international fashion brand that appeals to the modern woman.

See also: The Tatler 10: Elsa Lepeu and Johanna El Iman

 What is your proudest accomplishment?

I’m always proud of seeing the people I care about making their dreams a reality, whether that’s through starting their own business or starting a family. My proudest accomplishments are rarely about myself and more about the role I’ve played in the lives of the people around me.

 What do you love most about running your business?

I love meeting new people—aside from the actual clothes that I design, I always get inspired by people’s personalities.

 What advice can you offer to budding entrepreneurs?

Being passionate about your business is never enough, and in a world of entrepreneurs I think the most important lesson I’ve learned is to always stay true to yourself, your values and your beliefs. There are many people who will tell you how to do things, but only you know what feels right and what really works.

Tatler Asia
Above Photos: Moses Ng/Hong Kong Tatler

As an entrepreneur, what do you think sets your business apart from the competition?

Personally, I never look back and I always stay to my beliefs, no matter how many feathers get ruffled in the process.

Who inspires you and why?

Antonio Gaudi, the late Spanish architect is my biggest muse—he never compromised on his beliefs and was a pioneer at the time. His designs and his work continue to change people’s perceptions of what is possible. 

See also: The Tatler 10: Cassandra Choi

Looking back, do you wish you had done anything differently?

I wish I had taken more chances earlier on, life isn’t worth living if you’re not willing to take risks.

What’s your end goal?

To find love in everything that I do—both at a professional and personal level.

What are your words to live by?

Never settle for less—and don’t play it safe. 

See other Tatler 10 interviews with Hong Kong entrepreneurs including Carmen Choi, Nana Chan and Lelian Chew.

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