Canadian fashion designer Joy Hu produced her first piece at just 13 years old, and had already made a $10,000 online sale by the time she was 18. Where does she see herself in five more years? Find out in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
Design in the “couture” markets. My pieces are hand-made using high end and often unusual European fabrics; I employ my signature hand-embellishing techniques in each creation. My favorite designers are Christian Dior S.A. and Valentino. I call my personal style a cocktail of romantic elegance with modern sexy chic twist, and a dash of diamond.
My primary role is principal fashion designer for my exclusive line of designer gowns; I also design custom couture fashions and have recently expanded my collections to include more affordable and some casual pieces.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have had artistic talents since childhood, quickly learning to express them with fashion. My drawing experience started when I was 5, designing my own outfits when I was 13. My inspiration comes from my dreams after struggling to find my “dream’ outfit in real life. I had my first clothing business at 18, including sewing apprentice experience with a high-end custom shop.
I believe it is my destiny to be a fashion designer because I have been dreaming of designs since I was a little girl in China. By age 5, I began designing dresses in my dreams that were inspired by clothes my father bought for me on his international business travels, and seeing fashions from around the world also played a role in my inspiration to create unique designs that I couldn’t find in stores.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I follow a long-term goal and shorter-term goals on a weekly and monthly basis, but I adjust my plans from day to day to go with the flow of work and life. I am always working with a plan but am flexible; I don’t go to sleep until I feel my work is done.
The most challenging part of what I do is not having enough time and I tend to be too hard on myself. In the past I would work until my body said ‘no’, so now I am focused on my health. I’m a vegetarian and do yoga frequently to help create a balanced and successful life. Spending time with people I love is also very important to me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
So far I’ve had my designer dresses worn by celebrities, media personalities and famous models alike … Five years from now I plan to be a well-known designer internationally, and have my lines distributed around the world.
What does success look like to you?
Success is about personal achievement and has nothing to do with money. To me a successful life means having balance between personal, spiritual and career objectives.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
I had my first design produced at age 13, which was a life changing moment, and my first online store making $10,000 sale a month in Beijing when I was 18 was a big milestone. I also remember opening my first showroom in Canada In 2007; all of these achievements have helped shape my career today.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Persistence is the key. Whether in fashion or any industry, be persistent and do not give up on your dreams.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Yes, I love to support charities related to women, children and fashion. I consider myself to have a kind heart. I am a Buddhist so I believe in karma; also, lots of people helped me throughout my life, so I am always looking for opportunities to help others and give back to society. I support at least two charitable fashion events every year. Some examples are:
November 11th, 2011 – Joy Hu for Kol Hope at Four Season Hotel Yorkville
August 11, 2011 – Glamour Factory Swimwear Pool Party at Grace Hotel, Times Square. November 20th, 2010 – Because I am a Girl/Joy Couture in Support of Because I am a Girl Canada Fundraiser.
What to you is notable?
In other people’s eyes, I am a fashion designer, marketer, publisher, events planner and host. A master’s degree holder, a Canadian-Chinese top student and scholarship winner, but in my own eyes I am just being m., I always strive for the best wherever I am in the world. I live my life without regret, I work for everything my heart says yes to. But I don’t compare myself to others, I challenge myself every day and change myself for better every day – I don’t believe in human limits.
My friends and parents have been proud of me and of how much I have accomplished at a young age and I am proud of myself. Every time I look back, I can tell myself all the hard work is worthwhile. I believe everything is possible; there can be miracles if you believe.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
BlackBerry and iPhone.