What's the most challenging aspect of being a fashion designer?
Designing and creating are the fun parts of fashion. The challenging aspect involves marketing the brand, getting the name out there, transforming the design from illustration to 3D garments that are commercial. There are a lot of people involved behind the scenes before the garments are landed in store
How important is sustainability in your designs?
We always wanted to start something meaningful when we envisioned to have a business together. MNK Atelier offers a unique perspective to create high-quality investment pieces where sustainable and luxury co-exist. We create clothes that are timeless, sustainable, of high quality and can last for a long time. In order to do so, we have been seeking high-quality sustainable fabrics including organic, recycled, natural or a mix of these materials so that customers can keep the garments for
a prolonged period of time. Sustainability is one of our goals and at MNK Atelier, we are improving one step at a time.
What's the most important accessory in a wardrobe?
The most important accessory in a wardrobe is bags, because one bag can be used in so many occasions when styled with different outfits. They are so versatile and often statement pieces, one
does not need a lot to make a good outfit.
How do you see the future of fashion?
We can see that sustainability and technology will dominate the fashion world in the future, with AI being one of the most popular topics these days without a doubt. A lot of brands also have sustainability in mind like MNK Atelier. We hope to see more technology in creating sustainable
materials so that more options in terms of fabric choices for brands and encouraging consumers to be more sustainable.
Combining unique style and sustainability is very challenging for brands. Creativity can be limitless, but execution is limited by sustainable materials being less accessible than conventional materials. When supply is limited, the costs are very high especially for start-up brands like ours. We hope to see efficiency in the system overall.
At MNK Atelier, we value traditional artisan. In the future, we hope to see a balance between
traditional artisan and new technology.
How do you stay inspired?
I stay inspired everywhere, I need to get out of my home, going to museums, galleries, art fairs, and travel. Travelling is one of the best ways to explore arts and cultures. I love seeing sculptures, admiring architectures, wandering in boutiques, exploring different interior designs, observing
people on the streets in different countries, what they wear are sometimes very cool and inspiring.
