High Life

HIGH LIFE 51 But they assert that their journey as a rising fashion brand has been guided by a conscious decision to never settle. “The inspiration behind I.N.K Macau, which is literally our initials “I” and “K” combined, is to have the trends we set hopefully leave a permanent mark, like ink, as a result of our creative process,” Inky explains. The 27-year-old acknowledges the nature of the fashion industry in Macau, which sees local designers having to battle against the ingress of famous international brands. “But with us having both Chinese and Portuguese culture, we hope to present a distinctive view of style, especially to the younger generation which is our target market,” Kris adds. Making it in the fashion industry often means playing it safe and sticking with the current trends, but as I.N.KMacau approaches its next big step, their desire to break away from the mold has only grown stronger. And this unique approach has certainly attracted attention. The team recently showcased their second collection at Shenzhen Fashion Week since the show’s launch in 2016 and they are set to display another collection at Macau Fashion Week in May. Come September, I.N.K Macau will be parading on the runways of Hong Kong CenterStage. “It’s a very busy but very promising year for all of us,” Kris says, “and this is just the beginning.” As it is, the company’s signature style is displayed in unconventional rigouts and chic spins of many different categories, genres and subsets of men’s and women’s clothing. “Tailored and rebellious. Sporty and utilitarian. Formal and casual.” Inky and Kris take turns at describing what their brand represents, but society’s perceptions are the least of their concerns. Besides, life is too short to just blend in.