In Conversation with Vanessa Hong
In the ever-evolving world of fashion and lifestyle, the term "It Girl" has long fascinated trendsetters, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts alike. But what truly defines an It Girl? Is it her impeccable style, her magnetic personality, or the way she embodies confidence? And at what point does an It Girl mature into an It Woman?
These questions not only spark curiosity but also highlight the fascinating journey of personal growth, style evolution, and influence within the fashion industry.
To bring these themes to life, I had the incredible opportunity to interview one of my favorite It Girls, the original OG in fashion and lifestyle content, wellness guru, and intellectual baddie—Vanessa Hong.
About two years ago, I was introduced to Vanessa through a mutual friend, and my first impression of her was that she’s a breath of fresh air—kind, funny, thoughtful, an honest Aries woman, and effortlessly chic.
Vanessa’s approach to fashion is a masterclass in effortless elegance. She effortlessly blends high fashion with streetwear, sustainable pieces, and timeless classics. Her favorite piece from our Fall/Winter 2025 collection is the Raven Bolero Jacket, crafted from hand-crocheted cotton and hand-knotted paper raffia. The texture, the ASMR sound, and the weight of the piece showcase her appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship and sustainable fashion—a core value she advocates.
In our interview, Vanessa reflected on her journey, her wellness routines, her favorite travel spots, and her current music favs. Her radiant confidence and authentic voice continue to inspire many, proving her status as an It Girl who seamlessly transitions into an It Woman.
NT: What emerging independent brands are you loving right now?
VH: Julie Kegel, Hodakova, Colleen Allen, Lii Studio, Bettter, EENK, Diotima, Commission NYC, Jude the Brand, Fanci club, Abra Paris
NT: Current song you are listening to on repeat?
VH: sex money feelings die, Lykke Li
NT: Tips for combating productivity burnout?
VH: touch grass! my therapist sent me a study on how communing with nature can reset your mind scape. it inspires awe and makes you feel human in a very visceral way. i think productivity lives a lot in the mind, so sometimes you just need to excise yourself (literally)
NT: What does productivity mean to you?
VH: I don’t like using the word ‘productivity’ because I don’t see myself as a machine. I approach work and life from an artist’s perspective - discipline, getting yourself to the ‘studio’ (whether literal or proverbial) every day. committing to the work as a process and not an end product.
NT: If you could only go shopping in one city for the rest of your life, which one would it be and why?
VH: does the internet count? lol I rarely shop anywhere IRL anymore. but i love Seoul, if I had to choose.
NT: A fashion trend you wish the girls would stop wearing?
VH: not going to yuck anyone’s yum. >.<
NT: How do you prioritize self-care amidst a busy schedule?
VH: I start the day with self-care. I journal every morning and night. I take myself on mental health walks. I prioritize movement. I eat well. I prioritize sleep. self-care is my safety net.
NT: How do you manage stress and prevent burnout as a creator?
VH: Getting off all forms of tech. Doing tactile tangible things IRL. I also lean a lot on eastern modalities: acupuncture, meditation, cupping etc…
NT: Are there any wellness habits you’ve recently adopted that have made a big difference?
VH: I’ve started taking yin yoga classes again, which have really helped with slowing down my mind.
NT: What’s one wellness tip you wish more people knew about?
VH: reflexology! it’s a really powerful way to detox the body and create a sense of well-being. every time I get off a long haul flight I immediately book a foot reflexology.
NT: What’s your favorite way to unwind and relax after a hectic day?
VH: i order a green juice and açaí bowl from my favorite spot
NT: How has your fashion sense evolved over the years?
VH: omg it’s evolved so much! you can probably find evidence on tumblr etc from way back. I love a look (because I’m a fashion nerd) but I also love comfort. So recently i’ve been trying to do these simultaneously…
Follow Vanessa on her Substack and Instagram @vanessahong to stay inspired and connected.