Monica Chong interview for Livincool.com

Posted on 02.08.10 to fashion, interviews, news by Emanuele DAngelo

Monica Chong is the Creative Director of the british famous glasses brand Cutler and Gross.

Tell us a little about you…

I came from a fashion background, my mum was a fashion model, I studied fashion at Chelsea College of Art, I had my own label Monica Chong,a contemporay evening wear company from 80’s to 90’s.I supplied my collection worldwide to stores such as Harvey Nichols London, A La Mode London, Joseph London, Harrods, Joyce Hong Kong, Bendel NY, Saks NY, Isetan Tokyo and many others. I have worked on many other projects such as designing new uniforms for Lloyds Pharmancy, Asda Supermarket and consultancy for Biba during the late 90’s. I joined Cutler and Gross 2001 as their head of publicity and in 2002 I became their creative director as well. I am responsible for art directing and styling Cutler and Gross campaign and work closely with our designer Marie Wilkinson on trends and colours. I am also the creative consultant for Wound Magazine.

What initially drew you to the fashion industry?

my mum, she took me to fittings and I felt in love with the art of dressing up in beautiful clothes, it was just so thrilling to watch that I knew that was my vocation to study fashion design.

Who are your style icons?

Marlene Dietrich, Louis Brooks, Schiaparelli, Betty Page, Asia Argento

and favourite designers?

Schiapparelli and Charles James

Who is the most increbible artist who you ever use your sunglasses?

Jarvis Cocker, Elton John and Kate Hudson starring in the film NINE

And photographers?

photographers— I would have loved to work with Guy Bourdin and Man Ray if they were still alive !

Where do you get your inspiration?

my inspiration are from the cinema, especially the works by Fellini, Wong Kei Wai, Bunnel, Jean Cocteau and film noir.