Han Wenyan styles the stars
From kung fu to couture, Han Wenyan has designed for a roster of celebrities in her eight years in the fashion industry. Han, 30, recently spoke with students at the International Academy of Beijing about her current gig as a women’s couture fashion designer. Although the Shandong native studied at the Art Academy at Tsinghua University and in Milan for two years, this fashionista doesn’t wear her own creations exclusively; since she spends her time cutting cloth for others, she really enjoys shopping. Her style icons? Kate Moss and, believe it or not, Paris Hilton.
Gala Marin, 9, Chilean
What kinds of clothes do you make?
Couture. I also design clothes for famous stars like the Hong Kong kung fu movie star Zhao Wenzhuo.
Kelly Wen, 9, American
Why do you do this job?
I love making clothes. It’s always interesting work.
Joel Gilmore, 9, American
How long does it take to design clothes?
It depends on the type of clothes. Usually for couture, it takes about half a month, because you have to think a lot about the design.
Jeremiah Holsclaw, 9, American
How many clothes have you designed?
If I design clothes for a big brand, my team and I make about 200 pieces in three months.
Cindy Choi, 9, Korean
Why did you want to design clothes?
I think it’s important. When I was 8 years old, I liked drawing – I drew everywhere and everything. At that time, I wanted to be a big designer.
Ted Jeong, 10, Korean
What kind of clothes are easiest to make, pants or shirts?
T-shirts.
Angel Pollydore, 9, Guyanese
What is one of your favorite styles?
Styles that make you feel exciting, romantic and beautiful.
Micah Kim, 9, American
What is the hardest part about fashion designing?
When I’m working for celebrities, it’s hard to communicate with them and satisfy their needs.
Cindy Choi, 9, Korean
What’s the worst and best time in your designing career?
The best moment is when I’m inspired, when I know how I want to make the clothes. The worst part is trying to make the clothes the right way; there are so many details and it’s really hard to make everything perfect.
Leo Kim, 9, Korean
What is the price range of your clothes?
It depends on what clothes and the customer. Normally, the clothes cost around RMB 8,000.
Cindy Choi, 9, Korean
Who helped you the most to become a fashion designer?
My mother. She made clothes for me when I was a child, so I thought I could do it, too.
Micah Kim, 9, AmericanMicah Kim, 9, American
What would you be if you had to get another job?
A painter.
Angie Kim, 10, Korean
What is your favorite brand?
Chloe is my favorite international brand. Lawlandee is my favorite children’s brand in China.
