Elon Musk’s mother and Isabelle Huppert are fans: couture label Homolog and its elegant, feminine fashion creations
- Homolog is about promoting self-acceptance, the importance of spirituality and respect for cultures through exceptional clothing, its founder Emily Cheong says
- Already in Paris, New York, Barcelona and Kuala Lumpur, the label is looking to expand more into Asian markets such as Seoul, Hong Kong and Tokyo
During Paris Fashion Week, we discovered Homolog, a couture label founded by Emily Cheong, who counts French actress Isabelle Huppert as a fan of her ethereal creations.
Have you always wanted to be a designer?
“I was passionate about fashion and haute couture from a very early age – The Devil Wears Prada is the movie I’ve seen the most times.
“After a master’s degree in business administration and a doctorate in psychology, I started the Homolog adventure with one idea in mind: to show beauty in each of my garments and arouse emotions.”
Why did you decide to base Homolog in Paris?
“Paris is one of the best places in the world for fashion and culture. Living and working here is such a beautiful experience.
“Homolog is about bringing together different people from all over the world, promoting self-acceptance, the importance of spirituality and respect for civilisations and cultures through exceptional clothing.”
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How would you define your aesthetic?
“Respect and openness are the values not only of Homolog, but also of the women who wear it. The Homolog woman is casual, natural, delicate, elegant, original, feminine and unique. To make exceptional pieces, you need noble materials.”
Is there a piece that you feel best represents your work?
“Starting from the 2019 Faith collection, each collection features long floral, embroidered silk dresses – the Homolog dress with classic cuts inspired by traditional pieces, and the silk dress, which is elegant, loose and comfortable.”
Embellishments play a big role in your creations. Tell us more about that
“I draw inspiration from nature, the environment and life in general. All the 3D embellishments contain their own stories and feelings. The trees on the dress are from one of our client’s chateau. When she first bought the chateau, she had the same pattern on her scarf as the design of the chateau garden.”
How does your Chinese background influence your work?
“Some silk and handmade flowers used in our pieces come from China. Gathering handmade artwork and specialities from ancient times is one of my passions. Time passes but the artwork lives on.”
Where next?
“We are already in Paris, New York, Barcelona and Kuala Lumpur and now Homolog is looking to expand more into Asian markets such as Seoul, Hong Kong and Tokyo. And we have a boutique at 65 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris – Hermès is at No 24 of the same street.”
What is the biggest challenge in running the business?
“Product quality is our priority. The quality of couture clothes should be beyond ready-to-wear clothes. For our customers we create a friend-like relationship, anytime anywhere, and we offer a wide range of services that are not limited to clothing.”
Who inspires you?
“I am proud that I grew up in a family that values thinking and spiritual growth. My grandpa is a famous scientist, my auntie is a philosopher and writer, and my family taught me to live life to the fullest and to lead more people to find their life’s mission.
“Without these values, the Homolog brand would not have been born and would not have developed as smoothly as it has.”
How did it feel to dress someone as legendary as Isabelle Huppert?
“It was such an honour. She’s thoughtful, accomplished, beautiful, and has the ability to inspire. This is all I want from my clients.”
