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Kim Shui on Fashion, Technology, and her Designs for Fitbit

November 13, 2019

Nicky Campbell

 

Kim Shui’s fashion journey is nothing short of impressive. Her resume is a list of prestigious industry awards and prizes, including Vogue Italia’s Pitti Super Talents and Forbes 30 Under 30. Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2014, Shui  has maintained steady success with no signs of slowing down. Her roster of clients – including Kylie Jenner and Kehlani – buy into her distinctive aesthetic that merges her mixed cultural backgrounds and experiences. Born in the US.., raised in Italy, and from Chinese descent, Shui brings a worldly view to her collection. That makes her the perfect partner for Fitbit, the global technology company bringing fitness, health, and wellness to communities around the globe.

We caught up with Shui to hear the origin behind her first collaboration with the brand.

 

 

What elements did you consider when designing the watch accessories?

I think first and foremost we wanted the bands to reflect family and community. Fitbit is not only a high tech fitness watch but one that is about connecting people especially with their fully integrated social tools.

Tell us about the inspiration behind the design concept. Why did you decide to create a “friendship” bracelet?

Our brand is about bringing people together. One thing other people have mentioned is how so many different girls wear KS and they’re brought together through the clothing. I like having this family/ community aspect to the brand. If you’re wearing KS you’re joining an inclusive community – welcome to the family.

Fitbit had those same values- and I found that their social features really brought people together. That’s why I wanted the bands to also represent that. I chose to create modern friendship bracelets to embody unity and connection.

How do the watch accessories reflect your design philosophy?

Our own brand has been about bringing women together despite their differences through the clothes.

What was your favorite part about this project?

The best part about the project has been working with the Fitbit team and seeing the collab come to life.

 

 

Why is health and wellness important to you? How do you plan to incorporate the watch into your daily life?

I think health is the most important thing you have- it’s easy to forget about it sometimes when you’re really busy so I think Fitbit helps you keep track and pay more attention to your day. I’ve started keeping track of my daily routines, sleep patterns, and workouts now since wearing Fitbit. Keeping the Versa 2 on has helped me track my sleep habits. It’s hard to keep track of how much you really sleep so I think having that function on the Versa 2 has helped me be aware of my habits and work on changing them.

What are your favorite features of the watch?

I love the social element to it and also that you can keep track of how well you’re sleeping each day. It’s also always nice to see how much you’re walking in a day especially in a place like New York City.

You recently showed your collection during New York Fashion Week. How do you manage to take care of yourself during such a busy time?

Every NYFW is incredibly busy and my schedule is jam packed. It’s easy to forget if I’m exercising or sleeping enough and having the Versa 2 has helped remind me to do those things – also to drink enough water !

Where do you see the future of the intersection of fashion and technology?

I think the line between the two industries will continue to blur.

 

Shop the collection here

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FITBIT

FitBit
Kim Shui
Partnerships

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