When most people think of minimalism, they imagine neutral hues and simplistic designs. However, Anna Hoang of the Sydney-based label, Anna Quan, has broadened this narrative. Emerging from a background in law, she’s seamlessly transitioned into the world of fashion, adding vibrant hues and everyday luxuries to the minimalist palette.
Anna Quan, a name that has resonated with timeless elegance and understated luxury since its launch in 2013, has carved a distinctive niche in the global fashion scene. From catching the eye of international celebrities to adapting to the global changes brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, Anna Quan stands as a testament to Hoang’s ingenuity and resilience.
As the brand celebrates its 10th year, we sat down with Anna Hoang, the visionary behind the label, to understand the inspirations, the highs, the aspirations, and the very essence that makes Anna Quan what it is today.
About Anna Quan
Founded by Anna Hoang in 2013, Anna Quan began with a fresh take on the classic white shirt. It has since evolved into an emblem of effortless minimalism, seamlessly merging understated luxury with functionality. Rooted in modern tailoring and trans-seasonal designs, this Australian label crafts wardrobe staples that stand the test of time, inviting wearers to cherish simplicity and celebrate everyday elegance.
A Conversation With Anna Hoang
societyA: Congratulations! This marks the 10th year for Anna Quan. Reflecting back, what were the most transformative moments for the brand, and what aspirations do you hold for the next decade?
Anna Hoang: Thank you. I can’t really pinpoint any one moment but a collection of many small moments and steps towards building a brand. Key moments include dressing Kendall Jenner during the first few seasons when she debuted as a catwalk model, launching our signature shirt in year 2 of the brand and having it become a signature staple for many years, it helped fund the brand and gave it a clear and differentiated identity.
SA: Can you give us some insights into the inspiration and key elements of the Fall/Winter 2023 Collection?
AH: Key elements for Fall ‘23 – we have this really lovely textured light suiting from Japan. It’s really quite unique and brings a point of difference to otherwise flat suiting – it’s a yoryu texture and looks like sea waves.
SA: Anna Quan is celebrated for its elevated wardrobe capsules that effortlessly transcend seasons. How do you ensure that this vision is carried out in every collection?
AH: When we do fittings, we do look at the garment and ask how often this can be worn, and what would you pair the item back within an existing wardrobe. That is really important, if the items are designed too specifically in a certain way they can be less versatile.
SA: Can you share more about your creative process behind each collection?
AH: For me, I love reviewing fabric first and seeing what’s available. It’s much harder to design if I am unsure the fabric is available or I don’t know whether you can achieve a certain effect or shape otherwise. It’s always about the fabric first, it will usually tell you what it can become or what its potential is.
SA: As your brand makes its debut in Singapore through societyA, how would you describe the quintessential Anna Quan aesthetic? What can the #societyAWoman expect when she experiences your designs for the first time?
AH: Thank you. I am very excited for the brand to be experienced in Singapore. I think the #societyAWoman can expect effortless, timeless and elegant clothes.
SA: Given Singapore’s tropical climate, do you have any styling tips for the #societyAWoman to wear Anna Quan pieces comfortably and stylishly?
AH: Most of the pieces selected have natural fibre components, the knits are 100% cotton or majority cotton base. These should all breathe easy amongst the tropical climate. The colour and texture are matte and can be worn to complement other structured woven items, be it skirts or pants. Short sleeve knit tops like the Bebe pair effortlessly with tailored pants or existing wardrobe staples like denim.
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