Ritzy Chat : Founder of Basics for Basics, Kayla Wong

by Ella

Kayla Wong is more than simply the eldest daughter of celebrity couple, Janet Ma and Michael Wong – she is also the founder and creative director of slow fashion brand Basics for Basics and an LGBT+ advocate. We chat to her about her ethical business and how to shop sustainably.

1) Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I grew up in Hong Kong and went to college in Los Angeles. I think a lot of my inspirations come from the days I spent in California. I’m very much a free spirit at heart. 

2) Tell us a bit about your brand, Basics for Basics

Basics for Basics is an ethical fashion brand based in Hong Kong. From beginning to the end, the company wants to ensure that the products are made with care and that the people are treated the right way. When it comes to our garments, our main focus is to find the best solutions in lowering our carbon footprint, mainly using surplus fabrics, organic cotton and other sustainable materials. We focus on creating garments that act as your second skin. 

3) What inspired you to run a sustainable fashion brand and why is ethical fashion important to you?

I always knew I wanted to be in fashion because of the influence my mom had on me, but I wanted there to be an aspect of social responsibility. I came across the concept of fair trade and the effects that the traditional fashion industry has, and I just knew I wanted to be part of the change. I believe we are at a crucial time right now where our planet desperately needs a lot of changes in order for it to survive and my passion for this lies within how we can continue to make the fashion industry better. 

4) What is your most memorable moment while working at Basics for Basics?

I think it is really hard to just pick one. I think the whole journey of starting a brand is memorable. From photoshoots in the heat with friends to doing my first pop up, I love being able to collaborate with different people. All the connections I make through Basics are probably my most memorable moments. A brand is nothing without the community behind it. 

5) What advice can you give to new entrepreneurs?

Be patient with your journey. Everyone’s timeline is different so don’t feel like you need to compare yourself to your peers. It is also important to remember your ethos and why you started. Along the way, a lot of people will question you and there will be a lot of ups and downs so it’s crucial to always go back to your roots. If what you’re doing doesn’t bring you joy anymore, then find out why. 

6) Any tips for those who are looking to shop more sustainably?

There are a lot of ways to get into shopping more sustainably now! I suggest doing some research and looking into up and coming brands. There are so many out there now that focus on different aspects of sustainability, like Pangaia, ARQ and Themoire. Another way is to shop second hand or swap with friends! It’s actually really fun and economical as well. 

7) How do you make yourself happy and ritzy in life?

I like to dance and spend time with my dogs! I recently got back into ballet and it’s become sort of a form of meditation for me. It’s a time when I don’t need to care about messages and other thoughts and just be present. 

  • Ritzy Chat

There is a story behind every successful woman. Every week, we catch up and chat with incredible women doing incredible things shaping Hong Kong.

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