Jeweller and girl-about-town Wan Bao Bao talks punctuality and Zaha Hadid, while blogger and stylist Han Huo Huo admits to a penchant for pop, cartoons and Céline. Recently profiled by W magazine as a rising star of the East, Wan spent her formative years in the U.S. and Paris, before returning to Beijing as a socialite turned designer with the launch of her own line, Bao Bao Wan Fine Jewelry. Han, on the other hand, rose to prominence through frequent appearances on street style websites, before doing a stint as an editor at Marie Claire China. He now chimes in on all things fashion via his namesake blog on the English-language news source Sina. Here the two share their thoughts on the Chinese Zodiac’s Year of the Snake.
WAN BAO BAO
What will be the biggest fashion trends in China in 2013?
Chinese people will start to look beyond generic luxury labels and start appreciating more unique and niche brands.
What will replace Instagram as next year’s hot app?
Definitely Weixin (WeChat), the voice messaging system from China—it’s so much better than texting! You can even read the news and share photos on it.
What will the latest “fashionably late” rule be in 2013?
Fashionably late is passé—2013 is all about being punctual.
What will you be shopping for in the new year?
I'm looking to buy more art to decorate my place. Liu Bolin’s prints are my top choice.
What should people do to stand out more when being snapped by street style photographers?
Ignore the cameras and be yourself!
Which artists would you like to collaborate with in 2013 if you were a fashion designer?
For my jewelry, I'd love to collaborate with Zaha Hadid.
HAN HUO HUO
What will be the biggest fashion trends in China in 2013?
Funny cartoon elements, like the “Mickey Mouse” fur heels from Celine and the LEGO toy clutch from Chanel. It’s a little crazy and ridiculous, but since December 21 didn’t turn out to be the end of the world, it’s cool and better for us to live crazily! I also think this trend could be picked up in China because people here love cartoons.
What are your resolutions for the new year?
“Walk walk fashion baby, work it move that bitch crazy”—a year ago, I tried to walk in high heels on shoots after I heard Lady Gaga singing, “Bad Romance.” As you can imagine, I failed. So I made a resolution to learn to walk in heels. I hope next year I might have a chance to rock the runway wearing them!
What will replace Instagram as next year's hot app?
Viddy, a video diary to keep all the touching moments in life.
What will replace the rule “fashionably late” in 2013?
For me, being on time—or showing up early—is a rule that I will follow all my life. Maybe it’s not fashion, but I just want to do this.
What will you be shopping for in the new year?
Chanel’s new Le Boy, Balmain jackets, Kenzo tiger everything and, of course, Givenchy.
Who will be the next designer to watch coming out of China?
Masha Ma. She is exactly whom I love most: modern, chic, stylish, and the quality is perfect.
Your theme song for 2013?
Black Eyed Peas, “Where Is The Love”—I don't wanna be single any more!