Vivienne Tam has been a force in fashion for three decades. Her success comes from the conviction of staying true to her point of view by crafting narratives in clothing that mirror her heritage and personal journey from East to West.

Over the years, Tam’s designs have been worn by sophisticated and powerful women worldwide, from actresses like Julia Roberts, athletes like Serena Williams, First Lady Jill Biden, and Oprah Winfrey, among others.

Her ingenuous approach to design has brought her much acclaim and is displayed in the world’s most notable museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum at FIT in New York, as well as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

The CFDA member celebrated her 30th anniversary in business this year with a show held during last Paris Fashion Week at Palais de Tokyo. And there’s more to come.

Give us some background on your heritage and how you ended up where you are today.

Growing up with humble beginnings in Hong Kong, my journey has been one of embracing both my heritage and the opportunities that unfolded before me. From those early days, I made the leap across continents to New York City, the place where my dreams truly began to take shape.

Hand-carried with only 20 designs and $400 cash, I approached Henri Bendel’s open day for new designers to present my debut collection. I vividly remember that day, donning my Mao Jacket and braiding my hair, infusing elements of my Chinese heritage into my budding fashion line. Little did I know that bold choice would catch the eye of Carol Brown, a buyer who saw the potential in my designs and placed my first order in a store window display. Despite being a newcomer, I received invaluable support from American buyers and editors who mentored me in NYC’s business landscape.

My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From being told that success was out of reach because of my ethnicity to navigating the intricacies of the fashion industry, every obstacle only fueled my determination. I remained steadfast in my belief that my heritage held immense beauty and craftsmanship, qualities that deserved to be shared with the world.

Today, as I reflect on my journey from Hong Kong to the founder of my own company, I am reminded that embracing one’s heritage while chasing dreams is not just a journey—it’s a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue them.

How does your heritage play a role in the way you approach your business and design

With each collection, I aim to narrate a story, sharing fragments of my identity and experiences. It’s a journey of cultural amalgamation, fostering connections, and bridging the divide between East and West.

Love is a universal language spoken by all peoples, channeled through the beauty of our individual cultural expressions. The central theme of “Cultural Harmony” encapsulates my vision—a world where diverse traditions converge into a unified aesthetic.

Sustainability stands at the forefront of my endeavors, coupled with traditional handcraft techniques, underscoring my dedication to environmentally conscious design and heritage crafts.

Fashion meets Technology and Women Empowerment are integral aspects of my brand philosophy. I’ve been an early adopter of technology, blending fashion and tech innovatively for over two decades. From introducing the world’s first digital clutch in collaboration with HP to incorporating NFT tokens into fabric patterns, my brand has continuously pushed boundaries. This dedication extends to empowering women in technology, as I believe in celebrating cultural effervescence while honoring individuality and femininity.

What are some things you wish people knew more about when it comes to your heritage

I wish to shed light on the stories and craftsmanship that define my roots. From the symbolism of yin and yang to the concept of cultural harmony, there’s a depth of meaning behind every element. Whether it’s the idea that good things come in pairs, symbolizing double happiness, or the significance of the five elements, these are all integral to my cultural identity.

My designs aim to reflect not just objects, but the rich tapestry of life itself—capturing the essence of how people live and sharing their stories.

Ultimately, I hope to convey that my heritage is not just about aesthetics or traditions, but about fostering meaningful conversations and connections. It’s about bridging gaps, both cultural and generational, and fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s stories and experiences.

What are some of your favorite things (it can be food, music, entertainment-related) about your heritage?

One of my greatest joys is engaging in conversations with people. Whether it’s discussing life’s intricacies, exchanging stories, or simply sharing a meal, I find immense fulfillment in connecting with others on a personal level.

When I travel, I love immersing myself in the culture and history. Exploring local jade markets or flea markets allows me to uncover hidden treasures that carry the stories of bygone eras. I find joy in upcycling these ancient gems into new masterpieces, giving them a meaningful rebirth and a place in contemporary fashion.

Food holds a special place in my heart, serving as a gateway to cultural exploration and connection. I relish the opportunity to indulge in traditional dishes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also serve as a vessel for sharing stories and traditions passed down through generations.

What are some professional and personal exciting things we can look forward to?

My 30th anniversary Paris show was filled with excitement to embark on a year-long celebration of our journey. It’s been a remarkable ride. For me, this milestone isn’t just about marking the passage of time; it’s about inviting our audience to join us on a nostalgic journey through our fashion evolution.

I’m deeply passionate about education, especially when it involves nurturing young designers and students. For me, it’s not just about traditional classroom settings; I thrive on hands-on experience, right there in the studio where creativity is born. I’m all about fostering an environment where growth isn’t confined to textbooks but flourishes through real-world application. Because when we equip our future designers with both theoretical understanding and practical know-how, we’re not just shaping aesthetics; we’re crafting a more beautiful and ethically conscious world.

In terms of professional endeavors, I’m excited about delving into ethical fashion and upcycling. My goal is to contribute positively to society by promoting sustainability and social responsibility within the fashion industry. This involves not only creating collections for sale but also instilling a deeper understanding of their impact on both the environment and communities.