QUESTIONS ABOUT CECILIA
Where and when was the brand founded?
We launched on December 10, 2024. From Los Angeles!
What was the catalyst in starting the brand?
Long story short, during the pandemic I started doing two things that I loved as a child—drawing and riding horses. For the first time, I rented a separate studio space that was just for my art, a space where I could create and connect with my artistic soul. I had just moved to LA from Asia for a number of years, quite burned out, and seeking inspiration for what was next. Before long, it became obvious what I needed to build.
Was there a design/fashion muse you can tell us about?
There are so many, but I think my grandmother will always be one of them. She had an incredible eye and skill of hand—she could look at a sweater and knit it exactly, crochet blankets, embroider silk. She loved tulips, was an immaculate host, and had an incredible joy for life despite having lived through the Cultural Revolution in China.
What is the dream for the brand in the next 5 years?
I see us gradually expanding the line to explore different crafts and artisanal techniques, perhaps venture into wallpaper and other home goods. I want to keep building our connections to incredible horse communities around the world. I would love to have our own stores in some of our favorite cities in the US—maybe London or Paris too!
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU
Do you have a favorite collection or piece to date?
The Floating Rose Sweatshirt! I love how it levels up my casual. It's my favorite traveling layer and after at least ten times going through the wash, it feels better than ever.
What’s your favorite thing in your closet right now?
My mesh Seavees espadrilles. They are incredibly comfortable and the mesh gives the shoe a sexy flair. It's been my go-to for summer packing.
Who is your style icon?
I wouldn't necessarily say I had an icon, but I think whenever I feel like I'm in a style rut I go to Leandra Medine's substack for inspo.
If you could be from any other decade (or era), which would it be?
I think the 30s in Shanghai was pretty darn cool.
If you could have any three classic icons over for dinner – who would they be?
Elsa Schiaparelli, Michelle Yeoh, Nina Simone
Who would play you in the movie of your life?
Greta Lee
Best gift you’ve ever received?
My husband gave me riding lessons for my birthday one year early in our relationship. He might regret it now, but it has truly brought me back to something that is essentially part of me.
What does the word “Classic” mean to you?
Something that is timeless and always looks the part.
QUICKFIRE
Sign: Virgo
Dark chocolate or milk chocolate: Dark
Coffee or Tea: Coffee with heavy cream
Never without: Aquaphor
Color you couldn’t live without: Grass green
Your favorite accessory: A large Cecilia silk scarf
Your favorite wardrobe piece: The kimono I bought during my bachelorette trip to Tokyo—for the style and the memories
Last trip you were on: Italy—Florence (partially for sourcing, when you're an entrepreneur, you'll squeeze work in anywhere you can!), Rome, and Cinque Terre
Last book you read: On Beauty by Zadie Smith
Favorite Restaurant: We have this ramen place near us that is a hidden gem (so I'm not going to say what it's called!) but they know us, they know our orders, are so kind and the food is absolutely delicious.
Favorite city: I have three — London, Shanghai, of course Los Angeles!
If you were a color it would be: a sunny yellow
If you were a texture it would be: velvet
I’m a firm believer in: the golden rule
I’m deeply grateful for: my parents and my husband, who have supported me in the most meaningful ways at different parts of my life. I owe it all to them.
The world needs more: empathy and grace.
If you had to pick one Classic Six piece, what would it be? The Kate Slip Skirt!
