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The Tall Poppy Interview – Wai Hung, Fashion Controller/Manager
From the depths of Trenton to the fabulous world of Toronto fashion, Wai Hung has moved more than just a few kilometers west. Hung started working in the fashion industry only a few years ago but has already immersed himself in the work and perks that come with such a huge industry.
Wai talked with Torontoist about the fashion business, its perks, and life in Toronto.
What was it like growing up in Trenton? Did you always want to move to Toronto or do you miss living in a small town?
First off, Trenton is a small city not a town. There was always plenty to do, well, enough to keep me out of trouble. Actually, I didn’t really wanted to move to Toronto, but I needed to start my life and career off somewhere, and what better place than Toronto.
What do you do? What is the fashion industry like? Are there any perks?
My official title is an Office Manager, but I hardly do any managing. My duties are about 10% managing the office, and 90% controlling the finance. This includes: Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Collection, Releasing of Shipment, Client Service, Providing Financial Data and Reports to head office in Italy, and that kind of stuff.
The fashion industry has a fun, hip, and causal work environment. What other industry allow you to go to work looking stylish? Plus, if I don’t like what I am wearing, I can just put on clothes from the rack and wear them for the day.
There are definitely perks, like traveling around the world and attending fashion shows. I also get perks for attending the fashion show, like the grab bags, free food, and free alcohol.
Your company often puts on fashion shows, what are some of the brands you’ve worked with and what do you have coming up next?
Last year we had fashion shows for GAS jeans, Belstaff and Criminal Clothing. Our next one should be in the spring.
Who are some of the people you deal with and get to meet?
The cool thing about my job is meeting all the clients and getting huge discount when I shop in their store. I recently got to meet the President and Owner of GAS Jeans, Claudio Grotto.
Which game would you rather see, the Leafs, the Raptors, the Argos, or the Jays?
I am a big Raptors fan, but if there was actually a game to see I’d love to see the Leafs.
Where’s the best place to go out on a Saturday night?
On a Saturday night any clubs at the club district would be good. My fav’ clubs are Tonic, and Easy on the Fifth.
Where’s the best bar to watch the game?
The best bar to watch a game in downtown is the Peel Pub; they have cheap wings, big screens and good beer on tab.
If you could give Toronto a distinctive smell, what would you make it?
Do ants have a smell? I would make Toronto smell like ants. Everyone is busy running around like ants, we might as well smell like them.