On dressing for the job, without making personal stylistic sacrifices.
My personal style is all about comfort and proportions. I have to go to work and perform in a certain way and if clothing restricts me then I don’t respond well. But I also understand the importance of presentation. In my business, everyone clocks each other. Because you meet so many people all the time, first impressions go a long way. So, immediately, you want to set the right tone. I dress for the job while holding onto myself and identity. I use my wardrobe to protect myself and project how seriously I want to be taken. I want to impress you without intimidating you. I love menswear. I don’t have to worry about my ass hanging out.
On meeting important people.
At my senior show in 1988, I had a key spot. And Richard Pandiscio, the Creative Director at Interview and Stephen Gan, at Visionaire, happened to walk by. They took my business card that I made on a Xerox machine and they called me to ask if I wanted to come in with my book. And I’m like, my book? My book at the time was basically my senior thesis with portraits of my then-boyfriend with his brother and sister. Five portraits. And for whatever reason, it compelled people to call me. Thank God for that Xeroxed business card.
On making sure something’s always a little “off”.
In how I dress, I always like to have something that is a little off. Something surprising. My friend Ben once said to me: good taste can be learned, but bad taste makes things interesting. And god, that has always stayed with me. Everyone can have good taste. But when things are out-of-the-box, that makes things more exciting.
Like, for me, I love Mickey Mouse. I don’t know why, maybe it’s in my DNA as an Asian person, but I love it. I like him vintage, I like him cheap, I like him from Uniqlo. I don’t care. And sometimes, if I feel a certain way, I might want to throw that on.
On highs and lows. And socks!
Socks are another good example. I love a good sock detail. Be it intentional or not — matching your sweater to socks — very junior high, and I love that. If you have a nice suit on, make sure your sneakers are dirty. If you’re wearing ripped jeans, I love a nice shoe. I can’t tell you how many black and navy blazers I have. Every one of them is different to me. Throw it on, and all of a sudden you’re put together.