#AmanqiLoves: Emm Kuo


 

We wouldn’t be lying if we said we were completely in love with New York-based, luxury accessories label Emm Kuo. Combining designer Emmaline’s love for all things natural (the natural Mother of Pearl, resin & stone detailing is simply sublime) with references to the works of the most esteemed architects from across the globe (think Zaha Hadid & Frank Gehry), Emmaline brings to life art & culture through her exquisite creations. Intrigued by the designer’s design process, sources of inspiration & favourite ways to style an Emm Kuo piece, we sat down with Emmaline to discuss all things style,  social media & SS18.

 


 

Emm Kuo

Photo: Courtesy of Emm Kuo


The Emm Kuo Journey

 

Emmaline: I’ve always loved accessories. I think they really complete an outfit and can elevate a simple look. I wanted to create a line of handbags that are well priced but also fun and luxurious. The journey has been amazing! I’ve been able to meet all kinds of people from all over the world and as challenging as it has been having my own brand, it’s all been worth it!

 

The Many Sources of Inspiration

 

Emmaline: My design process always starts with a mood or a tone of place I want to convey. Travel is a constant source of inspiration for me; whether it’s the architecture of a certain hotel, colors of a city, the style of the people there, or just the mood of a place. Every style is named after a favorite place I’ve traveled to.

 

Emm Kuo

Photo: Courtesy of Emm Kuo


The Impact of Social Media

 

Emmaline: Social media is a key component in the building of a brand. We use social media whether it’s on Instagram or stories, to keep an open dialogue with our followers and potential buyers. It’s a great platform because I can introduce who we are as a brand, and create our own content that shows how our bags are luxurious, playful and the many ways they can be styled.

 

A Usual Day in Team Emm Kuo’s Life

 

Emmaline: Every day is different! It really depends on where I am in in the world. When I’m in NYC, a day typically starts with a big coffee. I head to the office to check in and handle the day to day. From there, it could be a photoshoot, meeting with our retailers or a meeting with suppliers looking at new leathers. I travel at least 4 months out of the year, so often I can be at Paris Fashion Week or off to Southeast Asia to visit our factories. A usual day is nonstop!

 

Emm Kuo

Photo: Courtesy of Emm Kuo


The Favourite Emm Kuo Styling

 

Emmaline: Our bags are versatile yet stylish; they go perfectly with anything from denim to a beautiful dress. Personally, I love pairing our evening clutches with jeans and a fun top for a night out!

 

The Closet Essentials & SS18 ‘Must-Haves’

 

Emmaline: For spring, definitely our Marigot bucket bag and Bowery tote bag. It’s the perfect size to fit all your day to day needs and is lightweight and stylish too.

For a holiday or special event, our ‘watermelon’ and ‘lemon’ Bora Bora clutches are my go to. They are so fun and eye catching, you’ll be the star of the party when wearing them!

 

Emm Kuo

Photo: Courtesy of Emm Kuo

 

Emm Kuo

Photo: Courtesy of Emm Kuo



 

Follow Emm Kuo: @emmkuony