TWO OF A KIND
Molly Chiang first got acquainted with fellow digital influencer Shini Park on Instagram. Molly unabashedly revealed that she had been stalking the London-based creative’s feed out of sheer admiration for her artistry. However, when they finally met in person at fashion week, it was completely serendipitous – as fate would have it, they clicked instantly.
Their chemistry is palpable – it is easy to see that they will make a powerful creative team. To unleash this potential, we brought them together in Seoul, South Korea for a collaboration to showcase our Winter 2019 collection. While Shini is the creative director of the shoot, Molly played an active role in styling it.
As expected, the result is a brilliant display of the duo’s inimitable personal styles and unique perspectives of fashion.
Both: It is always exciting to see two creative forces coming together – how do you feel about this collaboration and what is your favourite part of the process?
Shini: Two heads are always better than one, especially when there is sparkling chemistry like the one I share with Molly and her team. I respect her as a friend, a colleague and a businesswoman, so this collaboration was nothing but pure joy for me.
Pre-production was my absolute favourite part. We shared concepts and discussed logistics over butter rice and hot pot in Myeong-dong, Seoul. Planning and crafting the story is sometimes as exciting as the shoot itself.
Molly: It feels like a dream come true. Before I knew her, I was “stalking” Shini on Instagram and found her so creative and artistic. When we ran into each other at fashion week, we instantly clicked! From time to time, we talk about how nice it would be if we collaborated.
My favourite part of this project is working with Shini. I love that she always knows what her next step is. She has everything planned out and would execute them impeccably. Working with professionals like Shini makes me feel very productive – I worry less and learn more.
STYLE IS AN EXPRESSION OF INDIVIDUALISM MIXED WITH CHARISMA
STYLE IS AN EXPRESSION OF INDIVIDUALISM MIXED WITH CHARISMA
Shini: As the one who creatively directed the project, can you tell us more about the concept of the photoshoot?
Shini: For the studio shoot, I wanted to celebrate a “less is more” approach – Molly as an iconic supermodel with a ‘90s vibe. On the other hand, we took references from ‘70s Japanese gangster films and iconic images by Keizo Kitajima for the outdoor shoot. I wanted to picture Molly in a cinematic universe, a character in an action thriller where she plays a powerful, compelling heroine that illustrates female power and undying love.
However, in both stories, we celebrate Molly’s dynamic charisma, which really accentuates the sharp lines and sophisticated designs of CHARLES & KEITH’s Winter 2019 collection.
Molly: We love the looks you wore for the photoshoot. Which is your favourite outfit?
Molly: My favourite outfit is the mustard yellow pantsuit that I wore for the outdoor shoot – I am a big fan of tone-on-tone dressing. Moreover, the vibrant eye-catching colour and the simple yet elegant cut of the suit really stand out.
Both: Do you have any tips on how to incorporate the standout CHARLES & KEITH pieces featured in this shoot into one’s wardrobe?
Shini: One of the main reasons why I love the new CHARLES & KEITH Winter 2019 collection is that every piece is a design classic with a delicious twist.
For example, the knee-high boots with cone heels is an amazing functional update and the snake-print bag with a chunky top handle would upgrade any wardrobe classic.
However, my personal favorite is the kid suede pumps with sculptural heels – they complete a look with artistic flair.
Molly: This season, the key is to not overdress. For example, the snake print top handle bag or leopard print ankle boots are already very eye-catching, so the rest of your outfit should feature fewer colors or simpler designs. Perhaps a minimalist trench coat or a tone-on-tone suit like I mentioned earlier.
Both: Do you have any tips on how to incorporate the standout CHARLES & KEITH pieces featured in this shoot into one’s wardrobe?
Shini: One of the main reasons why I love the new CHARLES & KEITH Winter 2019 collection is that every piece is a design classic with a delicious twist.
For example, the knee-high boots with cone heels is an amazing functional update and the snake-print bag with a chunky top handle would upgrade any wardrobe classic.
However, my personal favorite is the kid suede pumps with sculptural heels – they complete a look with artistic flair.
Molly: This season, the key is to not overdress. For example, the snake print top handle bag or leopard print ankle boots are already very eye-catching, so the rest of your outfit should feature fewer colors or simpler designs. Perhaps a minimalist trench coat or a tone-on-tone suit like I mentioned earlier.
Both: From animal prints to micro bags, this latest collection from CHARLES & KEITH includes some of the season’s biggest trends. Which is your favorite design?
Shini: I can see the mini square pouch being a wardrobe staple long after the season ends. It is such a chic yet edgy piece that symbolises a carefree night out while looking polished! I can see myself taking it to brunch dates and nights out, armed only with my phone, credit card and lipstick.
Molly:My favourite design in this line-up is anything animal print. They are very on-trend right now and so cute to wear! However, the piece that I would personally continue using after the season ends is the mini bucket bag. Featuring a minimalist design and versatile colour, it is a classic that will never go away.
Both: From animal prints to micro bags, this latest collection from CHARLES & KEITH includes some of the season’s biggest trends. Which is your favorite design?
Shini: I can see the mini square pouch being a wardrobe staple long after the season ends. It is such a chic yet edgy piece that symbolises a carefree night out while looking polished! I can see myself taking it to brunch dates and nights out, armed only with my phone, credit card and lipstick.
Molly: My favourite design in this line-up is anything animal print. They are very on-trend right now and so cute to wear! However, the piece that I would personally continue using after the season ends is the mini bucket bag. Featuring a minimalist design and versatile colour, it is a classic that will never go away.
