Simon Chang approaches fashion like he approaches life – with style, grace and perpetual passion. He loves what he does. And he loves women. This holds true for all the stages of their lives, particularly as they age.
“Mature women are comfortable in their own skin,” he says. “Their style projects a different attitude.”
For Simon, designing clothes isn’t about market research, surveys, celebrity culture or red carpets; it’s about real people living real lives. His inspiration comes from talking to women – lots of women – about their goals, concerns, experiences and lifestyles. An active listener, he takes what he learns and translates it into workable ensembles that are sensible, washable, affordable and packable.
When it comes to fashion, “women want to make a statement,” says Simon. “They want to be noticed when they walk into a room, yet they want to be comfortable.”
To that end, Simon has developed two new lines to better serve his customers and their emerging needs.
The first is called Smart Clothes and he has left no detail overlooked. As women’s roles change in our ever-mutable world, so must their wardrobes. “We are repositioning our job descriptions,” says Simon. More people are working from home offices or shifting from an office-tied career to charitable work, continuing education, hands-on learning experiences, travel and adventure.
“I like to see women who take a chance,” says Simon. “In their wardrobe – and in life.”
Dress Circle is a line of dresses that retail for under $200. Every dress in the collection can be easily accessorized to change the look and personalize the outfit. It’s that go-to dress in your wardrobe that always looks fabulous and makes you feel great when you wear it.
Many women tell Simon their lifestyle is different now. He says it’s a time of rediscovery.
And Simon identifies with this renaissance, not only because he listens to the women he meets, but because he, too, is maturing – in his career and his own life.
“It’s not a women’s issue, it’s an aging issue,” he says. “And as we age, we learn to say NO.”
Simon, the designer, is no longer a hungry up-and-comer trying to make a name for himself in a competitive and often cut-throat industry; he has proven himself.
“I’m having more fun with it,” he says. “I can do whatever I want. It’s more rewarding now. I love hearing from the customer, not the press.”
Simon, the man, is enthusiastic about this time of life… even if one finds themselves alone. “This is the time of life you don’t have to compromise. What a privilege! There are no restrictions, no limitations. You make your own decisions; cook for one; create your own menu; make a fuss about you.” He believes we are starting to see a shift in people’s lifestyles where the emphasis is on enjoying your own company. “You can do whatever you want, so do it now. What an exciting time!”
With nests empty and career demands easing, this time of life is all about reclaiming simplicity. Simon says closets are shrinking and consumers are moving towards buying smarter. “Buy less, but buy better,” he says. “Be more daring!”
You don’t need a lot. It’s quality over quantity. Gone are the days of having a different pair of shoes to match every outfit. Smart Clothes are all about simplifying and being comfortable, while staying current and stylish. Don’t fuss over trends and body types, says Simon, think about who you are and the statement you want to make.
“I’m designing for the woman who has a purpose in life,” he says. “It’s about how we want to re-invent ourselves.”
Fashion Tips by one of Canada’s most beloved designers on being classic and staying relevant, from head to toe:
Head – For women experiencing thinning hair, Simon recommends natural-looking light hair pieces, extensions and wigs. Check out Raquel Welsh’s line. Beautiful hats can also add to an outfit, create a sunblock and give you a bit of mystery. Get a good hair cut – one that you can manage yourself and always looks great. Silver hair is beautiful, so it’s not about colour; it’s about style.
Make-Up – Keep it simple! Don’t wear too much; don’t make it look too dramatic or over-done.
Glasses – This is where you can be outrageous. Buy funky readers and have a collection of them to wear with different outfits. It’s an inexpensive, useful and fun accessory.
Accessories – Necklaces should make a statement; they should speak to you. Wear tons of bangles – be a wind chime and have fun with these. Gloves are fashionable again; give them a try. Hand bag options are phenomenal. Forget heavy, bulky leather bags. Don’t weigh yourself down. Stay mobile. Good posture is important and exudes confidence.
Clothing – Keep it extremely simple! Be comfortable – in style. Longer skirts and dresses are fashionable now. Buy active clothes; every day clothes. Learn your body and wear what’s most flattering for you. Highlight your fabulous features. Try jersey, which is flowy and dramatic. Simon loves colour on mature women.
Closet – Clean it up! If it doesn’t fit, get rid of it. If it doesn’t go with anything else in your wardrobe, get rid of it. If you don’t like it, out it goes!
Shoes – Happy feet are very important! Trendy runners are very in. Buy multi-coloured runners and sneakers for comfort and style.
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