A Cut Above: an interview with fashion designer Nassim Asgari
Known for her elegant gown and jewellery collections, Nassim Asgari is one of the rising stars of the Asian fashion industry. She divides her time between London and Hong Kong, busily promoting her collections. Chris Wong catches up with her to talk about her love of fashion.
HK Magazine: What’s your background?
Nassim Asgari: I am half-Austrian and half-Iranian, two completely different cultures. I like to think that my designs are like me and reflective of this mix of cultures. There’s a lot of mixing-and-matching in my designs, which is why I love Hong Kong so much, because you meet so many people from different parts of the world.
HK: How did you get into design? Has it always been a passion?
NA: I was inspired by my mother, who designed children’s clothes. My mother never formally taught me, but every day after school, I would just watch her design clothes. When I was around eight, I asked her if I could make my own dress. She was surprised at first, but then she picked up some pieces of fabric off the floor to give to me, and I made my first patchwork dress. I loved it so much that I didn’t take it off over the next two months. That’s when I knew that fashion design was for me.
HK: What inspires you?
NA: I get my inspiration from nature, especially flowers of different shapes and colors. I use these flower elements to create dresses that, in turn, reflect the different characters of my clients. I believe that each flower has a certain character and I incorporate this belief into my designs; each dress has its own character, mood and attitude.
HK: What colors and cuts do you prefer?
NA: I love strong, emotional colors. During the summer, I like strong colors with a touch of romance and during the colder seasons, colors that evoke a sense of warmth and glamor. These colors are able to energize those around me and inject them with happiness and motivation, especially during the rainy seasons. As for cuts, I believe that the best cuts should pronounce special body features. I especially like cuts that that hang over the body and are elegant, sexy and simple. I very much believe that this makes women feel more confident and beautiful.
HK: What are your plans for the future? Are you going to expand further into Asia?
NA: I would love to see my collections expand further in Asia because my dream started in Hong Kong. Obviously, I’d be delighted to be taken up by factory and accessory retailers and collaborate with luxury brands. I think we could make some great strides together. I’m currently in discussion with some brands in London, so there are some exciting things going on.