Interview with Sisi TANG

Sisi TANG ("ST") interviewed on Saturday, 31 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

ST : I have been working in the fashion industry as a designer for over a decade. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to present my work at major fashion weeks, including London and Lisbon, which allowed me to showcase my design philosophy on an international stage. In addition to developing my original brand, I have also collaborated with several well-known fashion labels, contributing to a wide range of design projects across apparel, accessories, and concept development. These experiences have shaped my approach to design—balancing creativity with function, and innovation with brand identity. My journey has been driven by a deep passion for exploring the intersections between aesthetics, sustainability, and technology in fashion.

How did you become a designer?

ST : Before deciding to become a fashion designer, I spent many years studying and practicing fine art. There was a pivotal moment when I realized I wanted my drawings to live beyond the canvas—to move, breathe, and exist on the human body. That realization sparked my passion for fashion design and set me on the path to becoming a designer. I earned my degree in Womenswear Design from the London College of Fashion, where I developed a strong foundation in both creative expression and technical precision. Currently, I am also a PhD candidate at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where my research focuses on sustainable and functional apparel design. This academic journey has deeply shaped my design approach, allowing me to merge artistic vision with material innovation and purpose-driven functionality. My motivation has always come from within—a desire to create thoughtful, human-centered designs that reflect both beauty and responsibility.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

ST : When designing, my top three priorities are concept integrity, user-centered functionality, and material innovation. Every project begins with a clear and thoughtful concept that aligns with the brand’s philosophy or the message I wish to convey. I believe that a strong narrative forms the foundation of impactful design. Second, I focus deeply on the user experience. Whether I’m designing a garment, an accessory, or a smart wearable product, I prioritize comfort, adaptability, and real-life usability. Understanding what people need—and how they live—is essential to my creative process. Third, material innovation is central to my work. I often work with functional textiles and sustainable materials, and I collaborate with engineers and textile developers to integrate new technologies into design. In terms of technique, I take a hybrid approach. I begin with hand sketches to freely explore ideas, then transition into digital tools such as Adobe Creative Suite and CLO 3D for refinement and prototyping. I frequently create physical mock-ups as well—especially when exploring structure, fit, or fabric behavior—because tactile feedback is irreplaceable in fashion design. No matter the project, I aim to strike a balance between emotional expression, technical precision, and sustainable purpose.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

ST : Designing is an emotionally layered experience for me—one that brings excitement, curiosity, and a deep sense of fulfillment. The most thrilling phase is the beginning—the moment when a concept starts to take shape. That initial spark, where research and imagination meet, is full of possibility. It’s where I feel the greatest creative freedom, and I love diving into the unknown to build a narrative that’s both thoughtful and relevant. As the design process progresses, there’s a different kind of satisfaction—one rooted in problem-solving, refinement, and collaboration. I enjoy watching abstract ideas evolve into tangible forms, especially when user needs, materials, and function align seamlessly with the creative vision. Seeing the final product come to life—especially when it resonates with real users—is incredibly rewarding. It creates a sense of purpose and connection that reminds me why I became a designer in the first place. Design, for me, is not just about creating beautiful objects—it’s about creating meaning. It fulfills me by allowing me to contribute positively to people’s lives, whether through comfort, emotion, or innovation. The joy comes from knowing that good design can make everyday experiences a little better.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

ST : Several aspects of my background beyond design have deeply shaped who I am as a designer today. My early training in fine arts, especially in drawing and painting, helped me develop a strong sense of composition, storytelling, and visual intuition. These skills laid a solid foundation for how I conceptualize and communicate ideas through form, color, and texture. Equally important are non-design skills such as empathy, critical thinking, and time management. Empathy allows me to truly understand and design for users’ needs. Critical thinking helps me approach problems from multiple angles and integrate function with creativity. Time management ensures I can lead complex projects while maintaining creative focus and meeting deadlines—especially important in my role as a design director. Academically, my experiences studying at the London College of Fashion and currently pursuing a PhD at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University have given me both practical skills and a strong research mindset. These have allowed me to work at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and functionality. One of the biggest influences on my work has been the desire to bridge aesthetics and purpose—to create designs that not only look beautiful but improve people’s lives. My journey has been a continuous evolution, moving from artistic exploration to research-driven, user-focused design. This combination of creative sensitivity and analytical depth defines my approach today.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

ST : My growth path follows a classic trajectory of a fashion designer—progressing from hands-on studio practice to advanced academic achievement, while increasingly focusing on the integration of design and technology. Along the way, I’ve expanded my vision to include not only aesthetics and function, but also social responsibility and inclusivity. My recent work centers on designing for specific user groups such as athletes, the elderly, individuals with limited mobility, and people with disabilities. These projects allow me to explore how design can truly serve and empower. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a designer who advocates for sustainable fashion while championing the needs of underrepresented communities. I don’t seek personal fame—I want the products I design to speak for themselves, to be loved by users because they offer real value and improve everyday life in meaningful ways. My dream design project would involve developing a fully adaptive, smart garment system that combines sustainable materials with intelligent functionality—designed not just for trend, but for dignity, independence, and well-being. While some of these ideas are still limited by time, resources, or technological readiness, they remain at the heart of my creative ambition.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

ST : I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice for young designers, as everyone’s journey is unique and shaped by different goals, backgrounds, and inspirations. However, based on my own experience, I can share a few key insights that I believe are universally valuable. First, creativity is essential—but it must be grounded in solid technical skills. No matter how innovative your ideas are, without the ability to execute them with precision and professionalism, they may never reach their full potential. Invest time in mastering the fundamentals of your craft, whether it’s pattern cutting, material science, digital tools, or garment construction. Second, always remember who you are designing for. Design is not just about self-expression—it’s about solving problems and improving lives. Understanding your user deeply will guide your decisions and keep your work relevant and meaningful. Lastly, stay open to learning. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came not from textbooks, but from listening to mentors, collaborating with colleagues, and navigating real-world challenges. Stay curious, stay humble, and never stop refining your vision through experience.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

ST : Success in design is not solely defined by aesthetics—it is built on a foundation of discipline, empathy, and a deep understanding of purpose. To fellow designers, artists, and architects, I would suggest always staying rooted in your core values while remaining open to continuous learning. The design world is constantly evolving, and adaptability, without compromising your integrity, is key. One best practice is to maintain a clear balance between concept and execution. While bold ideas are important, their success depends on precise, well-informed realization. Strengthen your technical fluency and develop a working knowledge of materials, production methods, and emerging technologies relevant to your field. Avoid designing in isolation. Listen carefully to feedback—not only from peers but also from your end users. Design is ultimately a form of service. Empathy is your most powerful tool for creating impactful, human-centered work. A common pitfall I’ve observed is becoming overly attached to one’s vision without fully considering context, feasibility, or audience. Stay passionate, but stay grounded. Lastly, don’t be afraid to tackle real-world problems, especially the difficult ones. Design has the power to change lives, but only if we dare to ask: Who are we designing for, and how can we make their world better?

What is your day to day look like?

ST : My typical workday begins with a glass of iced Americano—it’s a small ritual that helps me start the day with clarity and focus. With coffee in hand, I review my timeline and to-do list, which helps structure my day efficiently. I usually begin with the most creative tasks in the morning—concept sketching, mood board development, or refining design details—while listening to music to create an inspiring atmosphere. Afternoons are typically reserved for management-related responsibilities. As a design director, I oversee project timelines, coordinate with different departments, and review progress across teams. It’s the part of the day where ideas turn into concrete action. In the evenings, I unwind by reading books or browsing visual art publications. Although this may seem like work, for me it’s a form of relaxation and a source of creative nourishment. I enjoy discovering new perspectives through art—it keeps me inspired and connected to a broader creative dialogue. What makes an ordinary day feel special are the quiet moments—seeing a sketch evolve into a working prototype, or having a small breakthrough in solving a design challenge. These little victories keep me energized and passionate about what I do.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

ST : I believe design trends are important and worth referencing, but they should never override the core values of a brand or the real needs of the users. As a designer, I do keep up with the latest trends through trend forecasting reports, fashion week analysis, material innovation expos, and observing cultural shifts. This helps me stay informed and ensures that my work remains relevant in the broader design landscape. However, for the brand I lead, trend-following is not the primary driver. Our designs are fundamentally rooted in function and user needs, especially as we focus on performance wear and adaptive apparel. We conduct detailed user research each season, which often plays a more decisive role than seasonal trends in shaping our collections. If a trend aligns with our purpose and enhances the user experience, we’re happy to incorporate it. But ultimately, our goal is to create meaningful, enduring designs rather than chase fleeting fashion cycles. For me, innovation, empathy, and problem-solving define design far more than what’s currently "in style."

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

ST : For me, good design is always multidimensional—it must balance functionality, aesthetics, user experience, sustainability, and commercial viability. The first and most essential criterion is usefulness: a well-designed product should solve a real problem or meet a specific need. I also pay close attention to user feedback—if users find the product intuitive, comfortable, and meaningful in their daily lives, that’s a strong indicator of good design. Second, visual and structural aesthetics matter. A product should not only perform well but also evoke an emotional connection through form, proportion, and material. Beauty enhances usability when done thoughtfully. Third, I assess a design’s sustainability. Is it made with environmentally responsible materials? Does it reduce waste or offer long-term durability? For me, design that is harmful to the planet can never be considered truly good. Finally, I look at the commercial impact. A successful design must also support the brand or business behind it. Can it be produced efficiently? Does it add value in the market? The "aha" moment often comes when all these elements work seamlessly together—when a product feels effortless yet considered. Common mistakes to avoid include overcomplication, ignoring user needs, and prioritizing aesthetics over function. True design excellence lies in simplicity, clarity, and purpose.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

ST : To be honest, in the field of functional fashion design, I rarely consider a design truly “complete.” Our products are constantly evolving through iterative development—whether it's improving performance, responding to new user needs, aligning with changing aesthetics, or optimizing cost-efficiency. In this sense, good design is never static; it’s a continuous process of refinement and adaptation. That said, there is a point in every project where the design is ready for launch—when it meets the intended purpose, performs reliably, aligns with brand values, and satisfies user expectations. At that moment, we move forward with production, but we always keep an open mind for future updates. I view every product as part of an ongoing dialogue with our users and with the times. Success is not just about releasing a product—it’s about how it lives in the world, how people respond to it, and how well it continues to serve its purpose. For me, the design is “ready” when it meets that threshold, but there is always room for improvement.

What is your biggest design work?

ST : One of my most significant design projects to date is a health monitoring vest developed specifically for the elderly. This wearable garment is designed to track key physiological data and includes a fall detection alert system, offering a proactive solution to elderly care. It connects seamlessly with a mobile application and a cloud-based backend platform, enabling real-time monitoring and timely response from caregivers or community health services. The inspiration behind this project came from a deep concern for aging populations and the lack of integrated, dignified solutions in the field of wearable healthcare. My initial goal was to create a product that combined functionality, comfort, and aesthetics—something that elderly users would want to wear, not just need to wear. This project is special to me not only because of its technical complexity—integrating sensors, soft electronics, and data platforms—but because of the impact it has the potential to make in people’s lives. It challenged me to think across disciplines, collaborate with engineers, health professionals, and end users, and to push the boundaries of what fashion and technology can achieve together. Designing for real-world needs with long-term value is what I find most fulfilling. This project embodies that vision, and I continue to evolve it through research and user feedback to ensure it remains relevant, accessible, and life-enhancing.

Who is your favourite designer?

ST : My favorite designer is the visionary architect Zaha Hadid. Her bold and fluid approach to form, space, and structure has had a profound influence on how I think about design—far beyond the boundaries of fashion. I am deeply fascinated by her ability to transform rigid architectural systems into dynamic, almost sculptural environments through her mastery of line and geometry. What I admire most about Hadid is her fearless innovation and refusal to conform to conventional rules. Her work consistently challenged perceptions of space and function, blending aesthetics with structural audacity. If I had the chance to speak with any designer from the past, it would be her—I would love to understand more about her creative process and how she translated such complex visions into physical reality. To me, Zaha Hadid is one of the most iconic designers of all time. Her influence extends across disciplines, reminding us that great design is not limited by category—it’s about reshaping the way we experience the world.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

ST : I prefer a simple, nature-inspired lifestyle—being surrounded by natural environments allows me to relax and recharge both creatively and emotionally. I currently live in Hong Kong, a city I deeply admire. What inspires me most about Hong Kong is its unique cultural duality: a vibrant global metropolis with a distinctly Eastern soul. It’s a place where modernity meets tradition, and this harmony of contrasts continually influences my design philosophy. Yes, I absolutely believe that culture shapes design. My work is often a reflection of the values I see in society—strength balanced with gentleness, energy tempered by patience. These opposing yet complementary forces form a dynamic tension that I find creatively stimulating. Music is also an integral part of my process. It helps set the emotional tone of a project and often guides the rhythm and flow of my early sketches and conceptual thinking. I believe good design is essential to social progress. It brings clarity, dignity, and accessibility to people’s lives. Through design, I’ve adopted many small but meaningful changes, like embracing mindful consumption, choosing sustainable materials, and prioritizing comfort without compromising aesthetics. These choices don’t just shape my work—they shape how I live, and how I connect with others through design.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

ST : As the founder of a design-led startup, I work closely with a team of talented technical researchers and creative professionals who share a common vision: to create meaningful, user-centered, and environmentally responsible solutions. Our work culture is built on collaboration, curiosity, and long-term thinking. We are agile, forward-looking, and value both creative freedom and accountability. While I lead the overall creative and strategic direction, I work side by side with my team and partners—we value open communication and shared ownership of ideas. Is it easy to work with me? I would say yes—if you are passionate, responsible, and aligned with our values. I deeply respect expertise, encourage initiative, and believe in empowering others to grow. When selecting business partners, I look for those who understand our future-oriented approach, believe in innovation with purpose, and are committed to sustainability. When it comes to hiring or collaboration, I seek people with a strong sense of empathy, adaptability, and integrity—those who can think critically, work collaboratively, and remain user-focused throughout the design process. A designer’s ability to listen, observe, and transform insights into thoughtful solutions is far more valuable than style alone. What can’t be forgotten about our company culture is our dual commitment: serving people and protecting the planet. Every product we design must fulfill real human needs while minimizing environmental impact. These two principles guide everything we do. The core challenges in my profession include balancing innovation with practicality, managing interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring that design remains both commercially viable and ethically grounded. My responsibilities range from conceptual direction, material development, and user research, to guiding long-term business strategy and brand growth. Ultimately, I believe good designers, artists, and architects must possess not only creativity and technical skill but also emotional intelligence, resilience, and a strong moral compass. These are the qualities that transform good work into great impact.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

ST : As a designer and founder, I believe that design holds a social responsibility beyond aesthetics or market value—it should contribute meaningfully to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the environment. Giving back to society is embedded in both my values and my company’s mission. Our work often focuses on underserved or overlooked user groups, such as the elderly, people with limited mobility, and those in need of adaptive solutions. Designing for these communities is not just a business goal—it’s a form of social contribution. We are always open to participating in humanitarian or socially impactful projects, and we’ve supported several non-commercial initiatives that promote inclusive design, elderly care, and sustainable living. While we operate within a business framework, we also offer pro bono consultations or collaborative support for mission-driven organizations that align with our values. I strongly support the idea of designers, artists, and architects getting involved in humanitarian work. Design has the power to rebuild communities, restore dignity, and create opportunities where they are most needed. I also actively engage in mentorship and educational initiatives, sharing my experience with emerging designers through design events, public talks, and university workshops. Whenever possible, I provide opportunities for young creatives to join our team or participate in collaborative projects. Empowering the next generation is not only fulfilling—it’s essential for the continued evolution of meaningful design. What I love most about good design is its ability to quietly, yet profoundly, improve lives. That belief guides every decision we make, from material selection to business strategy. For me, design is not just a profession—it’s a way to contribute to a more inclusive, thoughtful, and sustainable world.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

ST : Participating in the A’ Design Award has been a truly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. It offered a unique platform to present my work to an international audience, connect with like-minded creatives, and gain recognition within a global community committed to design excellence. Being named Designer of the Day was a great honor—it reaffirmed the value of purpose-driven design and strengthened my motivation to continue creating work that serves both people and the planet. From my perspective, there are three key benefits to participating in design competitions like the A’ Design Award: Awards provide international exposure and media recognition that can elevate a designer’s reputation, attract new clients, and open doors to collaboration. The rigorous submission process encourages critical reflection, helping designers articulate their design thinking, refine their narrative, and assess their work against high industry standards. Engaging with other innovative designers fosters creative exchange and positions you within a global network that values innovation, sustainability, and social impact. For me, design competitions are not just about accolades—they are about dialogue. They create a space where creativity meets purpose, and where ideas that can change industries and lives are celebrated. As a designer focused on inclusive and functional innovation, I find these platforms vital for amplifying work that might otherwise go unseen, but has the potential to make a real difference.

Sisi TANG Profile