Creative Director and Graphic Designer Daniel Ting Chong is no stranger to the language of successful branding, working with the likes of Nike, Puma and The New York Times. The creative mind behind the FIELDS visual identity talks about the importance of research in his work and his clothing choices.
- What stood out for you about FIELDS, when first asked to work on the brand?
- What was your starting point ?
Research is always a key building block for any identity system. I met up with Mikael and learnt more about his story and how he got to this point. A lot of the conversation helps me distill what brands want to achieve and wants to be. For this project, I was required to develop a name and sometimes the name development is the most pivotal part of a brand development. After meeting with Mikael, I went away to conceptualise and presented a few names but FIELDS ended up as the winner.
- What is important for you when creating an identity for a brand and specifically, for a fashion brand?
- What is your typical creative process?
- Is there a part that you particularly enjoy when working on a creative brief?
Not particularly, but if I had to choose, it would be the research phase as that for me is the most critical part and is often a large proportion of the visual decision making. You can be a skilled designer and do on-trend stuff, but if your thinking isn’t solidified, the brand you’re building isn’t really sustainable. Decorative items or fluffy aesthetics eventually fade out with the trends.
- What are the parallels of fashion and functionality for you?
I love a piece that has utilitarian qualities, especially a jacket with multiple inside pockets for different objects but also the material functionality too. It is one of the most rewarding features when you realise the designer has thoroughly thought about the piece and how someone should use it or could use it and still look beautiful too. I don't think they should always be in parallel as sometimes putting on a beautiful tee with a specific print, may have a lot of nuance or history to it that overshadows functionality.
- What is important for you when you are investing in a piece of clothing?
The material composition definitely. I’ve been mindful over the last few years of not purchasing items that would only last a year or two versus spending a bit more money on pieces that would last longer and produced ethically down all the production chains from material sourcing to fair wages. Most releases these days have a story or history behind them and often I'll look into the campaign to see why it actually exists and if it has a meaningful story, I connect better with the brand and the collection itself which adds value to the pieces I'm investing in.
- What is your favourite piece in the current/ debut collection?
Definitely, the natural 1kg Sweater which I’m very proud to say that I own. The weight is incredible, it honestly feels like someone is giving you soft hugs the entire day. It’s incredibly comfortable and warm being 90% Merino Wool. It’s a great piece to own for winter that you can throw over a t-shirt and you’ll be warm for the rest of the day.
- 2020 - the year of…?
Rat! That’s my Chinese coming out in me. I’m not much of a horoscope reader or resolutions person but I do honour the Chinese Zodiacs
Denim or leather?
Denim
V-neck or Crew?
Crew
Sunglasses or watch?
Sunglasses
Backpack or duffle?
Duffle
Winter or Summer?
Winter
Maximalist or minimalist?
Minimalist
Monochrome or colour?
Monochrome
Podcast or Playlist?
Playlist
