We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Sisi TANG ("ST").
Leader of a startup and a designer specializing in functional apparel design. Her work focuses on integrating aesthetics with unique functionalities, creating designs that contribute positively to human needs and future advancements. Her innovative approach allows for the development of clothing that is not only practical but also enhances the overall user experience. Through her contributions, she plays a significant role in the evolution of the fashion industry, promoting sustainability and usability. Her unique blend of creativity and functionality makes her a noteworthy figure in her field.
Sisi TANG Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Sisi TANG.
Sisi TANG Design - Leopitorca Sustainable Sportswear
Designer Interview of Sisi TANG:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
ST : Before embarking on my journey as a fashion designer, I dedicated many years to studying painting. My artistic background has provided me with a strong foundation in visual aesthetics and creative expression. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, I had the opportunity to work with large fashion design companies, which enriched my understanding of the industry. Additionally, I explored the entrepreneurial side of design by attempting to establish my brand. What truly drives me to be a designer is a desire to explore the details of life and to create pieces that resonate with others. I believe fashion is a powerful medium for communication, and I am passionate about helping people express their individuality through my designs. This intrinsic motivation to connect with others and enhance their experiences is what inspired me to pursue a career in fashion design.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
ST : Our design studio, Leopitorca, was founded with a vision centered on sustainable fashion and functionality. We set out to enhance athletic performance while drastically minimizing our environmental footprint. Through thoughtful selections of fibers, fabrics, design, and production methods, we strive to create a unique intersection of fashion and high-performance technical innovation. Leopitorca stands as a pioneering force in the realm of stylish, functional skiwear. At its core, our brand redefines traditional skiwear by meticulously integrating advanced fabrics and innovative design elements that emphasize both visual appeal and athletic efficacy. Our pieces feature adaptive auxetic fabrics, as well as smart thermal and moisture regulation technologies, all crafted from sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Beyond merely being functional, our design philosophy champions sustainability. We utilize highly water-resistant materials and membranes to protect against snow, rain, and melting ice. Our innovative layering systems effectively manage perspiration while keeping external moisture at bay. Advanced insulation technologies ensure warmth retention, and anatomically cut panels facilitate dynamic movements necessary for skiing, such as crouching, twisting, and reaching. We are committed to adopting eco-friendly practices wherever feasible, including using recycled polyester and minimizing water consumption in our processes. Through this approach, Leopitorca aims to set new standards in the industry, merging avant-garde fashion aesthetics with high-performance functionality.
DI: What is "design" for you?
ST : For me, design is fundamentally about enhancing the quality of life for those around us. It serves as a means of infusing functionality and aesthetics into objects, creating a harmonious balance between the two. In my work, I place significant emphasis on the integration of aesthetic appeal and practical usability, ensuring that each design not only looks good but also serves a purpose. Ultimately, design is about elevating everyday experiences and making a positive impact through thoughtful and innovative solutions.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
ST : I aspire to develop clothing designs that seamlessly integrate aesthetic appeal with functional utility.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
ST : One of my favorite designs is a functional outerwear jacket from our skiwear collection, which has yet to be publicly showcased. This innovative piece features six textile-based sensors that we developed in-house. These sensors are highly durable, washable, and do not require batteries, operating instead on a technology known as Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs). What I particularly love about this jacket is its ability to combine style with cutting-edge functionality. It not only serves as a fashionable outer layer but also facilitates special data collection capabilities. Athletes wearing this jacket can have their essential bodily metrics monitored, such as heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, the jacket is equipped to capture movement signals, allowing us to analyze an athlete's dynamics in real-time. The integration of these features significantly enhances athletic performance by providing valuable insights into the wearer’s physical condition and movements. This blend of technology and design not only showcases our commitment to innovation but also underscores our dedication to improving the athletic experience.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
ST : The first item I designed for a company was a sports vest specifically aimed at seniors, which doubled as a health monitoring garment. This vest was engineered to provide functional monitoring of vital signs while ensuring aesthetic appeal and comfort. Following the completion of this design, we were honored to receive several international design awards, which marked a significant milestone in our journey. Recognition from such prestigious platforms was a tremendous boost for us and validated our commitment to creating innovative and meaningful products that cater to the needs of the elderly community.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
ST : I would like to express my enthusiasm for materials that are sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable. Additionally, I hold a strong interest in health monitoring technology.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
ST : I find that my creativity flourishes when I am in a state of complete relaxation.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
ST : During the design process, my primary focus is on the needs of the users and the market. Understanding the target audience is crucial; once I know who I am designing for, I can empathize with their preferences and requirements. I strive to envision what they truly desire and how my designs can enhance their lives, whether through tangible improvements or uplifting their overall experience. Once I have established this foundational understanding, I then infuse my personal insights on design and aesthetics into the process. This combination allows me to create unique products that not only meet user needs but also resonate on an emotional level, ultimately delivering both functionality and beauty.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
ST : I would like to express my conviction that the design process brings with it a profound sense of accomplishment. Every product I create carries the potential to serve others effectively while simultaneously prioritizing environmental sustainability. My commitment to developing eco-friendly solutions is not only a personal principle but also a pledge towards a more sustainable future for our society.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
ST : I wish to encapsulate my sentiments following the presentation of my design using three adjectives: positive, fulfilling, and proud.
DI: What makes a design successful?
ST : A successful design is characterized by several key elements. Firstly, it must effectively address the needs and preferences of its target audience. Understanding the users' requirements and pain points is essential to ensure that the design not only serves a functional purpose but also enhances their overall experience. Secondly, a successful design strikes a balance between aesthetics and functionality. It should be visually appealing while also being practical, ensuring that it resonates with users on both an emotional and utilitarian level. Additionally, innovation plays a critical role. Incorporating new ideas, technologies, and materials can elevate a design, setting it apart from competitors and providing added value to the user. Sustainability is also increasingly important; designs that prioritize eco-friendly practices and materials are more likely to succeed in today's conscientious market. Finally, user feedback and adaptability are crucial in the design process. A design that evolves based on user insights and market trends will remain relevant and effective over time. Ultimately, a successful design is one that not only fulfills its intended purpose but also enriches the lives of those who interact with it.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
ST : When assessing a design and determining whether it is good or bad, the first aspect I consider is its utility. A design must serve a clear purpose and effectively meet the needs it aims to address. If it lacks functionality, it cannot be deemed successful, regardless of its aesthetic qualities. Once I establish that a design is practical and useful, I then evaluate its visual appeal. This includes examining how well it aligns with current trends, as well as the harmony of colors and materials used. A well-designed piece should not only be functional but also aesthetically pleasing, creating a cohesive and attractive overall impression. Ultimately, the interplay between utility and aesthetics is what guides my judgment of a design's quality.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
ST : Designers bear a significant responsibility towards society and the environment. This entails a commitment to uphold environmentally sustainable practices, to be considerate of human welfare, and to respect all forms of life.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
ST : The advancements in the realm of design are progressively incorporating high technology. The future of the design sector is poised to merge technology, artistry, and functionality in an innovative manner.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
ST : Our last exhibition took place at the Design Center in Hong Kong, where we prominently featured our company's ski suit series. We are currently in the process of planning our next exhibition.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
ST : Our design inspiration comes from the retro styling of various sports. The design collection stands out due to its advanced fabric technologies, strategic garment engineering, and user-centered design. We use unique waterproof-breathable membranes, intelligent insulation zones, and anatomically optimized cuts to ensure superior weather protection, thermal comfort, and unrestricted movement. Additionally, robust seam sealing, abrasion-resistant reinforcements, and carefully placed ventilation elements help balance heat retention with breathability.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
ST : My design style can be best described as minimalist, practical, and fashion-forward. I emphasize inclusive design, particularly because my focus is on activewear and adaptive clothing. This ensures that my creations cater to a diverse clientele, which includes athletes, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. To explore and refine this style, I continuously seek to understand the unique needs of these groups. My goal is to create designs that balance inclusivity and functionality while maintaining a sense of style. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also empowers individuals to express themselves fashionably. The main characteristics of my design style include clean lines, thoughtful simplicity, and an emphasis on usability. I employ incisive design principles to ensure that each piece is both purposeful and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, I integrate adaptive design elements to accommodate various needs and enhance the overall functionality of my garments. Ultimately, my approach to design revolves around creating products that elevate the intersection of practicality and elegance, ensuring that fashion remains accessible and empowering for all.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
ST : I live in Hong Kong, a city where Eastern traditions and Western influences intersect. This unique cultural fusion deeply shapes my design philosophy, instilling in it a sense of inclusiveness and coexistence. Hong Kong’s multicultural environment allows me to draw inspiration from both heritage and modernity—traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation—which enriches my creative process. The advantage of living here lies in this openness: it fosters a broader aesthetic vision and encourages cross-cultural experimentation. However, the fast-paced, commercially driven nature of the city can sometimes make it challenging to slow down and deeply reflect on cultural roots during the design process. Still, this tension also drives me to find a balance between cultural depth and market relevance, which I see as a rewarding creative challenge.
DI: How do you work with companies?
ST : As the Creative Director of the company, I am primarily responsible for leading the creative product design as well as overseeing the overall creative strategy. I work closely with various departments to ensure that design concepts align with the brand’s vision and market positioning. My role involves guiding the development of innovative product ideas, curating seasonal themes, and ensuring that every creative output maintains both aesthetic value and functional purpose. I also collaborate with marketing, production, and R&D teams to ensure that the creative direction is consistently reflected across all stages—from concept to final execution.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
ST : I believe companies must collaborate with designers who share a similar vision and values. While design encourages individual creativity and exploration, it must ultimately align with the company’s brand identity, culture, and strategic goals. A good designer should not only have strong aesthetic sensibility and technical skills but also the ability to understand and translate a company’s mission into meaningful design outcomes. My suggestion to companies is to look beyond portfolios and focus on whether the designer demonstrates an understanding of the brand’s direction and shows a willingness to collaborate effectively. Mutual respect, clear communication, and a shared vision are key to a successful partnership between companies and designers.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
ST : My design process begins with defining a clear concept that aligns with our brand’s core philosophy and values. Each season, we establish a unique design theme that guides the creative direction. Based on this theme, we carefully select colors, fabrics, silhouettes, and design details that reflect both the aesthetic narrative and functional goals. Equally important is our commitment to understanding the user. We conduct in-depth user research every season to identify our target audience’s needs, preferences, and evolving lifestyles. This data-driven approach ensures that our designs are not only visually compelling but also relevant and meaningful to our customers. Sustainability and environmental responsibility are foundational principles in our process. From material sourcing to production methods, we strive to minimize environmental impact and uphold ethical design practices throughout the entire development cycle.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
ST : 1. A tote bag made from recycled denim – I love its rich textures and varied shades of blue, which tell a story of sustainability and craftsmanship. It’s also highly practical, with enough space to carry all my essentials. 2. A minimalist floor lamp – Its clean, streamlined silhouette and soft, ambient lighting create a warm and calming atmosphere in my living space, embodying both simplicity and emotional comfort. 3. A small round stool crafted from folded recycled paper – Inspired by the elegance of traditional origami, this piece combines beauty with strength. Its load-bearing capacity is impressive, and it reflects the subtle charm of Eastern folding arts. 4. A pair of earrings made from bamboo using traditional Chinese craftsmanship – This heritage item is part of China’s intangible cultural heritage. The intricate hand-weaving technique showcases remarkable detail and a deep respect for nature and cultural legacy. 5. A comfort toy designed for my pet – On days when I’m busy with work, this toy helps soothe my pet. It’s a small but thoughtful design that brings peace to both of us and reflects how good design can enhance daily life, even for our animals.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
ST : A memorable day in my life as a designer was when I visited a recycled yarn factory. The experience was both inspiring and educational. I began the day touring the facility, observing how discarded textile waste was sorted, processed, and transformed into new, usable yarns. It was fascinating to witness the full lifecycle of materials—from post-consumer fabric to renewed fibers ready for design. I spoke with engineers and technicians about the technological innovations behind fiber regeneration, gaining deeper insight into sustainable material science. I also collected fabric swatches and samples, which later inspired a new concept for a capsule collection focused on circular design. What made this day particularly meaningful was seeing sustainability not as a theoretical concept, but as a tangible, industrial process with real impact. It reminded me that every design choice—from fiber selection to final garment—can contribute to a more responsible fashion future. Experiences like this keep me grounded and continually shape my creative direction.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
ST : My advice to young and aspiring designers is to never underestimate the importance of mastering the fundamentals. Strong foundational skills—such as construction, materials, and proportion—are essential for turning creative ideas into practical, impactful designs. Even if you have 99% talent, it still takes that critical 1% of hard work and discipline to truly succeed in this field. Equally important is empathy. Great design starts with a deep understanding of your users. Go beyond trends and aesthetics—listen, observe, and truly feel what your users need and value. Design is not just about self-expression; it's about creating solutions that resonate with people’s lives. If you stay curious, grounded, and committed to your craft, your work will naturally find its voice and meaning.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
ST : From my perspective, one of the greatest advantages of being a designer is having the space to observe and truly experience life. Good design is born from a deep understanding of human behavior, emotions, and everyday moments. The ability to translate these subtle observations into meaningful design is both a privilege and a joy. It allows us to connect with people on an emotional level and create solutions that enrich their lives. However, the downside is that designers often become deeply absorbed in their creative work. This level of immersion, while essential for innovation, can sometimes lead to overlooking our own well-being or personal needs. Maintaining a healthy balance between professional passion and self-care is an ongoing challenge in this field.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
ST : My golden rule in design is: never forget who you are designing for. Design is not just an artistic expression—it’s a purposeful act of communication and problem-solving. Keeping the user at the center of the creative process ensures that the final product is not only beautiful but also meaningful, functional, and emotionally resonant.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
ST : Among all the skills a designer can possess, I believe empathy is the most essential. Empathy allows designers to truly understand the needs, desires, and challenges of the people they are designing for. It goes beyond aesthetics or technical ability—empathy is what enables us to create solutions that are human-centered, emotionally engaging, and genuinely impactful. Without it, design risks becoming superficial or disconnected from real life. With it, design becomes a powerful tool for positive change.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
ST : My design toolbox is a blend of both traditional and digital tools, supported by continuous inspiration from literature and human studies. I often begin with hand-drawn sketches—my sketchbook is an essential part of my creative process, where raw ideas take shape through various drawing tools such as pencils, markers, and ink. This tactile approach helps me explore forms, proportions, and details intuitively before moving into digital development. On the digital side, I regularly use design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CLO 3D to visualize concepts, refine details, and simulate garment structures. These tools enable me to bridge creativity with technical precision. In terms of intellectual input, I frequently read books on philosophy and psychology. They help me gain deeper insight into human behavior and emotional response, which greatly informs the storytelling and purpose behind my designs. Inspiration also comes from art, architecture, and everyday life—anything that helps me understand the world and the people I design for more profoundly.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
ST : Designing can indeed be time-consuming, so I rely on a well-structured timeline to manage my workload efficiently. I develop a detailed project schedule at the start of each design cycle, breaking down the process into clear phases—from concept development and research to prototyping and final execution. Each task is aligned with specific deadlines, which allows me to prioritize effectively and maintain steady progress. This disciplined approach not only ensures timely delivery but also creates space for creative exploration without compromising on quality or efficiency. Time management, for me, is not just about meeting deadlines—it's about creating the right rhythm for thoughtful, impactful design.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
ST : The time required to design an object can vary significantly, depending on the nature and complexity of the project. For example, if we are refining or iterating on an existing style, the process is typically more streamlined and can be completed relatively quickly. However, the timeline becomes much longer if we are developing an entirely new garment from scratch, especially when the fabric is custom-designed and produced. In such cases, the design process involves multiple stages, including concept development, fabric innovation, prototyping, testing, and final adjustments. This can take several months, as each step requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the final product meets aesthetic and functional expectations.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
ST : One of the most frequently asked questions I receive as a designer is: "As a fashion designer, do you also design accessories or other types of products?" My answer is yes. While my core expertise lies in apparel design, I often extend my creative work into related areas such as accessories, lifestyle products, and even textile innovation. I believe that design is a holistic discipline—when approached thoughtfully, its principles can be applied across different categories to create cohesive, multidimensional experiences.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
ST : One of my most important job experiences was working as a researcher in functional apparel design. This role allowed me to engage deeply with a wide range of performance-driven design requirements, from sports and outdoor wear to health-monitoring garments. I worked with advanced functional materials—such as moisture-wicking fabrics, temperature-regulating textiles, and sensor-integrated components—which expanded my understanding of how design can enhance both comfort and performance. This experience not only strengthened my technical expertise but also deepened my commitment to creating apparel that is innovative, purposeful, and responsive to real human needs.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
ST : My clients range from established fashion brands to innovative startups, as well as institutions and research-driven organizations. I collaborate with companies seeking to integrate functionality, sustainability, and forward-thinking aesthetics into their product lines, particularly in the areas of activewear, outdoor apparel, and smart textiles. Some clients come to me for full-cycle product development, while others seek strategic consulting on materials innovation or creative direction. I value long-term partnerships and enjoy working closely with teams that are committed to pushing boundaries and creating meaningful design solutions. Note: Due to confidentiality agreements, I may not be able to disclose all client names publicly, but I am always happy to share selected case studies upon request.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
ST : The part of the design work I enjoy the most is the early-stage concept development. This is when ideas are the most fluid and imaginative, where research, intuition, and creative exploration come together to shape the foundation of a collection. I find great satisfaction in defining the narrative, visual language, and emotional tone of a project. It’s a phase that allows for deep thinking, cross-disciplinary inspiration, and experimentation, which I believe are essential to creating designs that are not only visually compelling but also meaningful and original. For me, strong conceptual grounding is what gives a design lasting value.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
ST : Looking ahead, my focus is on further advancing my work in functional and adaptive design. I plan to deepen my research into innovative textiles, wearable technology, and user-centered design strategies that respond to diverse physical needs and environmental conditions. My goal is to develop products that not only enhance performance and comfort but also promote inclusivity and sustainability. Whether through collaborations, independent projects, or cross-disciplinary research, I’m committed to pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve in improving everyday life.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
ST : I work as part of a collaborative team, where I serve as the Design Director. While I lead the creative direction and oversee the entire design process, our work is highly collaborative. I guide concept development, ensure design consistency, and make key decisions, but I also value the input and expertise of each team member, from material specialists to pattern makers and technical developers. This team-based approach allows us to combine diverse perspectives and skills, resulting in more innovative and refined outcomes. At the same time, my role ensures that all creative efforts align with our brand vision and strategic goals.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
ST : Yes, we are currently continuing our research and development on health monitoring garments. This project explores the integration of smart textiles and wearable technology to create garments capable of tracking key physiological indicators in real time. Our focus is on developing solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also comfortable, adaptable, and user-friendly for everyday wear. The goal is to bridge fashion, functionality, and health innovation, particularly for use in preventive care, elderly well-being, and active lifestyles. It’s an exciting area of exploration that holds great potential for improving the quality of life through design.
DI: How can people contact you?
ST : You can contact me via email at:[sisi.t@leopitorca.com] I welcome inquiries related to collaborations, design projects, or research opportunities, and I’m always open to connecting with individuals and organizations who share a passion for innovation, sustainability, and purposeful design.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
ST : I would just like to add that if anything in this interview resonates with you or sparks your interest, please feel free to reach out to us directly. We’re always open to meaningful conversations, potential collaborations, and opportunities to exchange ideas with those who are passionate about design, innovation, and making a positive impact through creative work.