Fashion crusader and globetrotter-in-chief Declan Chan has been regularly enlisted as highly influential amongst leading industry aficionados, being a formidable force that made serious waves in the system. Looking at Chan’s portfolio, it may read as an overwhelming who’s-who writing for the glossiest glossies and experiencing the dandiest dances on a world scale.

But, in spite of popular judgment, don’t be stumped. The stylist and digital talent has dug a fruitful path and molded a mission to stan in an industry often epitomized as corny and deflated, representing the next generation of bosses who, regardless of widespread beliefs, give a few fucks about detrimental estimations. And no, this isn’t a lark. His game-changing, dynamic, and forever-on-the-go umph in the styling realm (with plenty of fire look to blaze one’s sight big-time) alongside a strong capability to deliver top-notch content amid the frantic period of fashion month, where he’s an acquainted regular, Chan is a skillful candidate in the fashion sector, which is commonly categorized by adverse moralities. As an ardent media pundit having a will to dash into new realities, we grabbed five with the style wiz to unpack new forms in digital communication and reflected on what he looks forward to in post-COVID times. 

 

Thanks for tuning in Declan. How did you venture into the business?

I started by working as a fashion editor for a print magazine. Followed by a 7-year gig at a fashion retailer, I chose to quit such profession and started freelancing to work for my own projects with brands.

 

What drew you to delve into the creative façade of the industry?

I guess I just chose where my strength is at. Every facet of the fashion industry requires your creativity, and to be able to make a living through using this talent is a blessing.

 

How has social media propelled your practice as editor/creative?

Social media gave me a platform to document my daily life working and living as a fashion creative. It also allowed me to amplify the brand’s messages from an event, or content work to a global audience that you choose to cultivate. It’s an essential tool that one can DIY to give yourself a voice just like the way traditional media does.

 

What’s your take on the new digital wave of creatives (influencers, digital talents, Tik Tokkers and more) who have carved their own lane in industry – considering their kind of roles in relation to what your practice entails?

I personally have my feet step in both worlds. The line between “new media” and traditional media has been blurred for a very long time. Digital is definitely not a new buzzword for media and brands. I quite enjoy sitting in the middle, because you see how traditional media or brands still try to find their way to make things digital, while you see the digital media people try to elevate their content to match the standard of a traditional print creative. So, my constant endeavor is to strike a balance, adopting the best of both worlds to create something that’s top-notch and relevant to our time.

Hold on a minute – so do you feel that Tik Tok came to stay, or is it just a mere thing?

I believe Tik Tok is having its moment because of the pandemic. It’s a tool of expression, that doesn’t require the glamorous setting which involves traveling for Instagram. Tik Tok makes it seems OK for the creator, who’s able to make all the content at home. It’s a whole different game. I am looking forward to seeing how the content on this platform will evolve post-pandemic. It should be quite different once people can travel again.

 

What are the things that you tackled prior to this situation, that you want to do differently?

I have been traveling non-stop during the past eight years of my life. It was basically a life-in-a-suitcase, quite nomadic I’d say. There was literally no time for me to make any long term, sustainable planning both in terms of my business and lifestyle. I think this situation taught me to take some reassessments of my working and private life and channeling my priorities even further.

 

Tell me about what’s next in the pipeline…

I’m currently trying to make it work for some current projects, without the traveling. I am trying to tap into some new way of working which we can do things remotely, or virtually. Also, I think everyone must have picked up some new skills after this quarantine. My case? I’m learning to cook from YouTube.