Recently, we've has the pleasure of interviewing the founder of Cuevolution, Lim Ai Chiin. Cuevolution was founded in July 2014. They've an amazing list of both international and local talents, with incredible designs that are fesh, unique, and exciting. With the extraordinary list of designers, Ai tells us how she came to the idea of CUEVOLUTION and the inspiration behind the brand.
Founder Ai Lim (center) Image via Cuevolution FB Credit: LifestyleAsia.com
OffTheRack: Cuevolution is a fresh new concept, with amazing talents. Tell us, how did you come to the idea of Cuevolution?Ai: After coming back to Malaysia from London, I realized there was a niche that needed to be filled: we have a lot of big names (brandwise: Chanel, Prada, Kate Spade etc) as well as the usual high street (Topshop, Zara etc) but there was no platform for young emerging global design talents and that’s where CUEVOLUTION fits right in. Of course, I’m also super excited and keen to spread the love I have for these designers I have discovered lol! It’s all very exciting!!
OffTheRack: What is your vision for Cuevolution?Ai: The vision is to set a nice online platform for fresh emerging talent from around the globe. It’s easily accessible, and digital is pretty hot right now. Starting here first in Malaysia and of course spreading out to our neighbouring countries i.e. Singapore, Brunei, and Thailand and gradually to the rest of the world.
Designer Christina Sabaiduc showing one of her amazing pieces (Image credit: KinkyBlueFairy.net)
OffTheRack: Where does the name, Cuevolution come from, and what inspired it?Ai: “Creation Upon Evolution” is the actual name of the store.LOL! But with a good friends advice I decided to shorten it to CUEVOLUTION. It revolves around the close relationship designers and trendsetters. Both are constantly inspired by the other and with inspiration comes growth and change (evolution) in the designs (create/creation) and personal style (create/creation). Our little catch phrase "Create.Evolve.Style" summarizes that. It’s a never ending circle of self improvement for both designers and trendsetters.
OffTheRack: Talking about inspiration, what inspires you to create great fashion?Ai: Art and the people around me. I’m constantly inspired by these two. They never stay the same.
Some of the Unique and Bold Bowties from Rory Hutton's Collection (Image credit: KinkyBlueFairy.net)
OffTheRack: And how does that inspire you on a personal level?Ai: To better myself in what I do. There is always room for improvement.
OffTheRack: The Brand carries amazing talents, like Rory Hutton and Azooi (just to name a few). How did you come to know of these designers and bring them together?Ai: Merci! That’s very kind. I would say I was pretty lucky with the designers. I met them through mutual friends and I guess you could say in some romantic way perhaps, it was fated lol! When I met them, I approached them about my idea of starting CUEVOLUTION and the concept and they were very much on board. It’s great working with talented like minded individuals who share the same goals. I’m very thankful and grateful for all the support I’ve had so far.
An Elegant Clutch From Azooi (Image creadit: Cuevolution Instagram)
OffTheRack: What do you look for in a designer, to join the Cuevolution family?Ai: I look for fresh design talents that have that quirk and edge to them. What I enjoy the most is the thought process that goes into each collection and the detail that goes into each piece of clothing. And I think that is what my clients would appreciate as well. The story as well as good craftsmanship.
OffTheRack: Are there any plans for new designers to join the list of the amazing talents at Cuevolution?Ai: Cheeky, yes of course! But that’s a surprise :)
Valkyerie by Valarie Yap, truly accessories that stand out (image creadit: Cuevolution Facebook)
OffTheRack: You are working a full time job as well as managing Cuevolution. How do you manage your hectic schedule?Ai: Keeping calm..with lots of green tea and some caffee lol! Planning ahead definitely helps. For CUEVOLUTION I have my plan for each month of the whole year written out and plastered on my wall. It’s like a timeframe for deadlines almost. It gives me a good view of what I need to do each month and what I need to prepare for the following months to come. It’s all so exciting when I see, say for example photo shoot and I get pumped up prepping for that. Of course, taking regular breaks and exercising is important. :D
OffTheRack: Where is Cuevolution headed to and what can we expect from Cuevolution in the near future?Ai: More amazing collaborations and definitely more new names in the fashion scene from Malaysia and abroad.
Rory Hutton, Ai Lim and Christina Sabaiduc (Image via Cuevolution Facebook)
OffTheRack: What do you like about the local fashion scene?Ai: It’s certainly growing and it’s very exciting at the moment. I think we are pretty colourful: from fashion hijabistas to street style and dapper dandy look to name a few; we have a pretty good mix over here in Malaysia. What’s even more exciting is that everyone is keen on exploring the fashion realm even further now, in fact I think more so than we have before. We are more receptive to new designs and styles and that’s where the growth in the industry will come in. We also have an amazing range of local talented designers, such as Cassey Gan, Jonathan Liang, Joe Chia to name a few.
OffTheRack: Do you have any fashion advice for your fans out there?Ai: Always be comfortable in what you are wearing. Do not just follow trends for the sake of it. Create your own style. What you wear everyday is a reflection of who you are :)
Ai is truly an inspiration to many, with Cuevolution's family of truly unique and talented designers and individuals, this brand is definitely one to watch. We'll be looking forward to more great designs from CUEVOLUTION.
Check out the great products from Cuevolution here >> http://bit.ly/OffTheRackCuevolution
And remember to Stay Stylish! In the words of Cuevolution, "Create, Evolve,Style"
Thank You Ai Lim for taking the time to do this interview!
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