Meet Ivan Liu | Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ivan Liu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ivan, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am originally from Hong Kong and growing up in an Asian family, my parents were strict with me when I was young. They wanted good grades on every subject I study, pushed me to do a lot of extracurricular activities like play the piano, the violin, traditional Chinese musical instruments as well as sports. However, I think they have soon realised that I was not going to fit into the traditional mould of going onto doing a law or doctor’s degree, so they have allowed me to develop what I like, which is in the arts. I am extremely thankful for them allowing me to explore these options as compared to a lot of other peers, they weren’t even allowed to think about anything else other than their grades as their whole life has been planned for them in advance.

I think that impacted me to think outside of the box as I was allowed that freedom of expressing myself through art. I am able to pursue this career all thanks to my supporting family and I could not do it without them. Our relationship has changed so much and it brought me and my family closer as we were able to listen to each other.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am in the process of starting my brand, it is a hard road for sure and I am working towards this goal and hopefully able to sell my designs to customers who would be able to feel confident in my clothes. I believe in good quality clothing, that meaning pieces that have great craftsmanship. With millions and millions of wasted apparel thrown out eat year, I want to create pieces that could contribute to my customer’s capsule wardrobe, garments that they can wear over and over for years without it going out of style nor will it fall apart easily. I also want to create garments that would allow my customers to be confident in, no matter what skin colour, body size or gender. I want my customers to feel confident in themselves when they wear my designs, allowing them to succeed in their everyday tasks, giving them joy and hope when they wear my pieces.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would definitely recommend Ponce City Market, the market has so many different stores and restaurants, it is always interesting to explore different bits and pieces around that area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this first of all to my mother as she has been my main support all these years, listening to what I want to do with my life and giving me advice on what I could do when I am at a crossroad without judgement. Secondly, I would like to thank my mentor Julia, she has inspired me to be as creative as I want to be and taught me to listen to my own voice as a designer. Last but not least I would like to thank my best friends in Hong Kong, they have listened and given me advice when I’m sad as well as shared my happiness on my achievements. Thank you all so much!

Website: https://www.ivanfiyeroliu.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivanfiyeroliu/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanfiyeroliu/

Image Credits
Simone Cutler Laken Howell Ember Nguyen