Interview: Michelle Lai of Mischa on being a fashion independent

Michelle Lai, founder of local accessories brand Mischa, talks about the challenges of running an independent fashion label in Hong Kong.

What is the concept behind your current pop-up at PMQ? “It’s called Cabinet of Curiosities – I’ve always wanted my own greenhouse and I have a habit of trawling antique shops for treasures. That, and visiting lots of botanical gardens, was the inspiration behind the spring-summer 2015 collection. We’re presenting brands we’ve found and love.”

Travel is an important part of your lifestyle. What are your favourite destinations? “Travelling takes me out of my comfort zone. Paris and Kyoto are my favourite places to get inspiration. Everything from the sights, people, food, architecture, fashion and music trigger ideas. I spend a lot of time in markets, temples, parks, museums, hanging out in cafés and meeting friends. And I’m a beach bum when it comes to ‘unplugging’. Once a year I go on a yoga detox holiday, which is actually hard work but very necessary.”

What do you never leave home without? “My phone and one of my bags. It’s a shame how much I’ve come to rely on my phone, but it allows me to work from anywhere. Like right now, I’m writing up these answers in a café in New York while it’s snowing outside!”

What is the reality of running an independent fashion label in Hong Kong? “It’s stressful, you make a lot of sacrifices and you don’t ever switch off. It’s a challenge to balance different aspects of a creative business and life. I don’t want to complain too much because I get to do things on my own terms and meet so many amazing people. If your heart can handle it, it’s a roller-coaster ride every day.”

What are your long-term plans for Mischa? “I started with handbags but I think that’s just the beginning. I want it to become a lifestyle brand encompassing more product categories. Eventually, I want it to incorporate aspects of wellness and education. We’re launching our own scented candles and there’s more to come.”