24 Hours With… Feng Chen Wang
Rising star Feng Chen Wang is a very busy woman. Since launching her eponymous label in 2015, the innovator’s directional, functional, conceptual and personal designs fusing multicultural narratives have (unsurprisingly) made her a worldwide sensation. Her bio so far boasts collaborations with global superstars such as UGG, Converse and Levi’s.
More recently, we welcomed the latest in Feng’s collaborative series with Canada Goose. Delivering wearable masterpieces for art lovers and outdoor adventurers everywhere, showcasing the work of conceptual artist Xu Zhen. Ahead of launching her very own pop-up for London Fashion Week AW23, we caught up with the designer who certainly takes full advantage of every hour in her day.
“The first order of the day is always a latte.”
Morning
What time do you wake up and where?
I’m usually up around 6AM to keep up with the different time zones I’m working around - whether that’s in the studio in London or Shanghai, or with creative teams across the world.
What’s the first thing you do in the morning?
Time check and morning stretches. The first order of the day is always a latte.
Where are you usually based?
I’m currently based between Shanghai and London where both my studios are. I’m also spending time in Paris, where we held our fashion shows and showrooms.
What does your average day look like?
My schedule varies from day to day. It typically involves creative and design meets, Zoom meetings and studio work. If I finish work in time, I will usually have dinner with family and friends before heading back home.
Do you have any morning rituals?
I’m usually rather spontaneous, but generally coffee, a quick workout and prepping my work schedule are typically the constants in my morning routine.
Where is your studio located and how do you get there?
In Shanghai, my apartment is a short distance to our studio, and I tend to live within walking distance from the London studio. Everything is usually within reach, which keeps things convenient for my busy schedule.
“I’d describe myself as a creative storyteller and artist in this industry.”
“I’ve always wanted to build further bridges between the East and West.”
Daytime
How would you describe what you do?
I’d describe myself as a creative storyteller and artist in this industry. Growing up in China and spending so much time across the world - particularly in New York and London - has added layers onto my perspective and interpretation of the world, and translated through to my collections.
How has your background influenced who you are today?
I’ve always wanted to build further bridges between the East and West, connecting culture, community, and generations in a time where society is more fractured than ever.
How did you get your start in fashion?
After debuting for New York Fashion Week with VFiles, I hadn’t really prepared to launch my label at that time; but after the show, we received a lot of orders from big stores and that really pushed me to start my own label. Since then, we’ve grown and joined the London Fashion Week official schedule with the support of Fashion East, before moving to Paris Fashion Week in 2022.
What’s the most important moment for the brand right now?
We’re celebrating our seven-year anniversary now and it’s been a huge milestone for us with so much to celebrate.
How do you get into a creative headspace?
Getting into a creative headspace isn’t a challenge for me, but travelling and exploring both my home country and the world has definitely helped me with maximising my creativity.
In your own words, how would you describe your collaboration with Canada Goose and Xu Zhen?
This project was particularly exciting as it’s my first collaboration between three creative parties. The design process allowed me to translate traditional Western and Eastern aesthetics with the added lens of Xu Zhen’s Under Heaven artwork series, and gave Canada Goose’s pieces a multidimensional spin through my lens and design ethos.
Do you have a favourite piece from the collaboration?
I love all of them but if I had to choose my favourite, I would probably choose the Mercer 2-In-1 Down Jacket in yellow. This jacket exudes the classic silhouette of Feng Chen Wang - which can be worn on both sides - as well as the functional, luxury performance and protection of Canada Goose. The colour and pattern are also from Mr. Xu Zhen's painting, The World.
“Exploring my home country and the world has definitely helped me maximise my creativity.”
Evening
What’s on your bookshelf right now?
I’ve been reading books on leadership and management these days. It’s a never-ending area for self improvement as we’re still growing as a company.
What time do you go to bed?
Depending on any late meetings and the time of year, I tend to get to bed at midnight. During Fashion Week and campaigns, it’s usually all hands on deck so not the healthiest bedtime routine.
Do you have any evening rituals?
Reading whilst listening to music before I turn in.
Shop Canada Goose x Feng Chen Wang x Xu Zhen
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