Asian Allure: Exclusive interview with Vivienne Tam on her UOB Cards collaboration
updated the 7 December 2015 à 12:53
We spoke to the internationally acclaimed designer to find out more about her limited edition bags that were created exclusively for UOB Cards. And trust us, these bags are about to be snapped up.
As one of the most successful designers to come out of Hong Kong, Vivienne Tam, is a name that immediately comes to mind when we talk about East-meets-West design. With at least two decades under her belt, Tam has always been known as the designer who effortlessly infuses Asian aesthetics into modern silhouettes. Whether it’s incorporating Ming vases, opera girls, or the Silk Road, her impeccable creations never fail to intrigue.
From having her pieces featured in this year’s New York Metropolitan Museum of Art’s ‘China: Through the Looking Glass’ exhibition to the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and the Andy Warhol Museum, Tam’s work has been indubitably well celebrated.
Her designs have also expanded beyond clothes to laptop designs for HP and a hotel suite for Hotel Icon Hong Kong, to name a few. Well, now we get to bask in a little of her creative genius as Tam collaborates with UOB Cards for an exclusive limited edition bag. Crafted with cut outs, the tote bag was inspired by the lotus flower emblem and comes in two classic colours – black and gold. With its size, it’s also roomy enough for a laptop when you’re heading to work, or for all your essentials on the weekend.
So before we get our hands on it, we spoke with Vivienne Tam to find a little more about her involvement with the project, her inspiration and advice for dressing up in Singapore.
What made you decide to work with UOB Cards on this project?
The goal of the project was to create something unique and special for UOB Cards to commemorate and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the independence of Singapore. I was glad and excited to participate and contribute to the occasion.
What was the inspiration behind the design of the bag? Is there a meaning behind it?
I chose the lotus design because its roots grow in muddy water, but the flower rises above the mud to bloom. It represents our life experiences and how we break free in order to excel. A gold lotus signifies enlightenment and purity.
How do you define your personal style?
I am not bound by any style, form or trend. It all depends on my mood and the occasion.
What is the one item in your wardrobe that you cannot live without? Why?
There is always one piece from each of my collection that I cannot live without.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My mother. She was the person who taught me how to make clothes and how to be individual.
Do you think the fashion industry will face a burn-out soon?
Never. There is always newness and excitement.
What are your tricks to styling in Singapore’s hot and humid weather?
A beautiful embroidered cotton eyelet dress or a printed silk chiffon dress.
Do you have any advice for aspiring designers in Singapore?
Never give up. Be your own individual.
What are some of your future plans?
I’m currently working on some very exciting projects. One of them is a new e-commerce site which will be launched very shortly. I am also finalizing an app which will be launched next month. It will be announced very shortly.
This post was sponsored by UOB Cards. For more information on the limited edition bags and redemption, click here.
