The Secret Behind Fashion’s missions in Shanghai
As a journalist for nearly three decades, Jenny Lau is well-versed in the challenges and creative solutions within the denim industry.
Carved in Blue chatted with the founder of The Secret Behind Fashion, a public welfare platform for fashion businesses in China, about the evolution of fashion in the region and the growing role Shanghai is playing.
Carved in Blue: How long have you been in the fashion industry?
Jenny: I’m a journalist and I’ve focused on the fashion industry about 27 years. I started my career in 1992. My first job was as a reporter at Shanghai Fashion Times. Now I’m trying my best to do things that improve the Chinese fashion industry.
Carved in Blue: Which organization do you work with in China?
Jenny: I am the deputy secretary general of a Shanghai fashion industry association, and I founded the public welfare platform of fashion, The Secret behind Fashion, with a public number and physical space. I regularly hold a series of public welfare activities such as classes and workshops to help small and medium-sized enterprises, brands and designers.
Carved in Blue: Where are your workshops taking place, and how can people follow what you’re doing?
Jenny: The physical space in ShanghaiMart is an area of 350 square meters. All of the events are published on WeChat and also synched to over 10 other industry media outlets, who have a column for me.
Carved in Blue: Does your organization relate to Western organizations?
Jenny: Shanghai is becoming an indispensable part of the international fashion industry. More than half of my partners are from overseas. I have a very pleasant and effective cooperation with them.
Carved in Blue: How is the evolution of the fashion industry in China?
Jenny: China’s fashion industry is developing rapidly, and the power of design is rising.
Carved in Blue: Is sustainability important for the fashion industry of China? Do brands or mills care more about it?
Jenny: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to the Chinese apparel industry. Brands and factories are paying more and more attention because consumers will pay greater attention to it.
Carved in Blue: What is the best and worst denim style?
Jenny: I like the freedom, individuality and comfort of denim. [I don’t like the] too rigid, heavy style.
Carved in Blue: Which city is most inspiring to you?
Jenny: Shanghai. Always Shanghai.
Carved in Blue: What does Carved in Blue mean to you?
Jenny: Creativity and passion.