Mark’s contrasting education gave him his unique take on balance; one he has leveraged to the full as he gained knowledge and maturity as a designer; a balance he now applies to his life, how he conducts business and how he creates. MARKGONG’s collections tell intricate stories, they capture the unrestrained style of New York and the refinement of Shanghai.
I love you, but I love me more
As a teenager,I found myself seated beside my sister, captivated by none other than the legendary TV series, "Sex and the City." It was in that very moment that the glittering lights of New York City danced into my soul, and my admiration for self-loving,confident, accomplished,strong, self-reliant, and open-minded women was set ablaze. "Sex and the City" wasn't just a show; it was a roadmap for navigating the treacherous terrain of fashion and love in the big city. It whispered wisdom about staying true to your chosen path and living life without a hint of apology.
Fast forward to today, and on those quiet, contemplative nights, my guilty pleasure is revisiting the iconic show. One episode remains etched in my memory, the one where Samantha valiantly bids on a diamond gardenia ring, only to be outbid by her sneaky boyfriend who'd posed as the winning bidder to surprise her. But you see, Samantha's real goal was to show the world that women can and should buy jewelry for themselves, not just as tokens of affection but as symbols of their own accomplishments. Samantha's declaration of self-love, "I love you, but I love me more," still sends shivers down my spine.
In the big city, we find women navigating a labyrinth of complexity, just like the fabulous Samantha. She embodies unshakeable confidence, self-awareness, spontaneity, and self-love. She's the embodiment of the strength and confidence women often keep hidden, and she fearlessly pursuesher desires while embracing her independence. Samantha is a beacon of inspiration, urging modern women to embrace reality, love themselves fiercely, and chase their passions relentlessly.
This season's collection draws inspiration from the vivacious Samantha. It exudes a unique fashion language and an unshakable poise. No matter how convoluted life gets, it encourages women to stay open, face challenges head-on, and do it all with unwavering determination. To me, the big city will forever be a place inhabited by women who embody Samantha's audacious spirit.
In this Spring/Summer 2024 Collection, I've revisited traditional craftsmanship, putting leather, beads, sequins, denim, flocking, georgette, and more in the spotlight. Key pieces include M shaped motifs adorned with vintage floral patterns, half-sleeve waisted suits that carve out a structured silhouette, and the soft, semi-transparent gardenia shirts that elegantly drape over inner garments. Let's not overlook the boldly revealing, well-constructed pocket jackets, leggings, socks, and other styling choices that offer glimpses of skin. And for that extra flair, the half-transparent wave bustier skirt delicately drapes the body, creating a fusion of wild and restrained elements.
For those who crave a touch of audacity, my artistic hand-painted plaid suits feature strategic cutouts at the chest, injecting a sense of aggression and tension into the designs. And of course, I couldn't resist the siren call of innovation, so I've fearlessly embraced upgraded 3D printed molds in this collection.
I invite you to wonder, "Could we truly immerse ourselves in the breakthroughs and blossoms of the GONG GIRL, remaining fully engaged in the tumultuous dreamscape, and create a unique realm of freedom within the daily grind? Can we transform the imposed rules and relentless routines into an adventure characterized by ambition, courage, and transcendence?"
xoxo Mark
