Our Designers: Stolen

Stolen

"Those who keep more than what they need, are thieves."
-- Ghandi

Stolen is the brainchild of Elyn Wong, former Creative Group Head of Ogilvy & Mather (O&M). Launched in 2007 as a pet project, Elyn juggled advertising, fashion and art until this year. She left O&M to launch her label as a full-fledged fashion line this year. 

Although Elyn has no former training in fashion design, her graphic design background has undeniably contributed to the timeless aesthetic of her minimalistic chic designs. Elyn was recently handpicked to represent Singapore at her first Paris show, Tranoi, this September.

STOLEN's designs are stylish staples we are dying to have in our closets. See for yourselves!

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Born and bred in Singapore. But my biggest love is to see the world. So travelling and experiencing different things in life is a big part of me. I came from a graphic design background. Been working as a Creative Group Head in advertising for the past 16 years. But I believe creativity should not be conformed to any media or forms. Which is why I am also a fashion designer and an installation artist. Creating is just so much fun.

How did you transition from advertising to design?

I was actually juggling advertising and my own label and art for around 7 years. It proves to be quite challenging at times when it comes to time management. But mostly, they feed on one another creatively. Sometimes when I feel dry from advertising, my fashion label comes my escape. But there are also times when my advertising work will give me the brightest ideas for my installation artwork. I see all these as just different extensions of myself creatively...so [it] doesn't feel like it's too much of a stretch reality. It's all revolving concepts, expressions and aesthetics.

What was the inspiration behind starting your own brand?

My job in advertising requires me to help build and grow million dollar businesses everyday creatively. At one point, I realized I wanted something of my very own. Something that breaks away from the hierarchy of big organizations. Life is too short to be doing what everyone else wants. After a while, I start to seek what I want for my life. Starting Stolen satisfies my desire for vanity, feeds my insecurities and keeps me real.

What inspires you?

Architecture, women with short hair and contradictions (which is inherently in all women).

Why the trademark bare back?

Stolen's signature backless feature are usually quite bold and structured. It encapsulates the strength of women while it accentuates the curves and sensuality. Every woman likes to be sexy. But not everyone is comfortable revealing too much. Back is one of the sexiest part of a woman's body that most women are comfortable showing. However, most backless garments out there are overtly sexy with body hugging forms that I am not hot about. I feel that sexiness can be more understated, more classy or even edgier. Stolen is trying to fill that gap.

What's the biggest risk you've taken so far?

Taking the leap of faith into a career that I am not trained in (fashion). And getting out of a comfortable industry that I am very confident in (advertising).

What's the most fulfilling part of your job?

Turning thoughts into reality and seeing how random ideas in my head can eventually materialize into tangible things that other women can fall in love with. And the realization of how some brilliance in the head can turn out horrendous and how some rubbish can evolve into brilliance. Guess sometimes in life, you just have to try to know.

To pre-order one of STOLEN's amazing dresses, visit our site once we launch! For more behind the scenes snap shots, follow Stolen on Instagram (@stolenstolen) or Facebook.