10 Questions With... Jason Wu

After he shot to fame overnight when Michelle Obama stepped out at her first Inauguration Ball in his one of his creations, Jason Wu is often thought of as the designer First Ladies go to when they need to look immaculate in front of the world. It's easy to see why: Wu's sleek designs exude sophistication, womanly charm and an effortless ease. In town to headline Singapore Fashion Week, the boyish-looking Wu talks about what to to expect from his spring/summer 2018 collection, guilty pleasures and his latest obsession.

What inspired the collection we'll see at Singapore Fashion Week?

My focus for Spring 2018 collection was a polished ease. I wanted to focus on American Sportswear, one of the house codes key, updated with modern sportif.

Related article: 4 Singaporean Brands To Keep Your Eye On For SGFW 2017

What's your favourite piece from the collection?

The silk printed jersey with multi-coloured flower motifs inspired by my journey creating my first fragrance.

What do you think fashion needs at the moment and how does your voice as a designer fit into it? 

I think fashion needs realism. It needs designers who design with their customers in mind. I’m inspired by seeing real women feeling beautiful wearing my designs in their everyday life and I think that really plays into a realistic sense of the world.

Your dresses have appeared on the backs of powerful women such as Michelle Obama. Is there someone you wish to see in your designs?

I would love to see my design on Cate Blanchett. She is such a classic beauty.

What are you obsessed with at the moment?

I’m obsessed with SK-II masks! It’s an easy and relaxing refresher mid-week. I always travel with one.

What's your guilty pleasure? 

I’m a sucker for [music on the] Top 10 [chart]… right now it’s Harry Styles on repeat. Is that embarrassing?

What do you listen to when you need to unwind? 

Sam Smith

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What's your favourite perfume? 

I just launched Jason Wu fragrance and it was a truly personal project for me. The Jason Wu fragrance was inspired by scents that remind me of my childhood. The scent not only evokes the livelihood of the Jason Wu collection which is so dear to me, but also personal memories.

Related article: The Best New Fragrance Releases For Fall 2017

And your favourite candle scent?  

Byredo Cotton Poplin candle. I find the clean scent very refreshing.

What's a recent discovery you're most proud of? 

Never say no to a day off!