What better way to spend our morning than hanging out with Megan Widmer and Tania Shroff of the Sassy Hong Kong team. These ladies stopped by The Fitting Room for a personalised styling session and gave us the downlow on the Sassy HQ.
Tania, what’s the strangest thing in your office?
Sassy HQ is a proud part of Garage Society’s co-working space, so a day in the office is eventful, to say the least. From the indoor hammock, to the never-been-used solar-powered barbeque on the balcony, strange is definitely a welcomed normality here! On a Friday, the crashing sound of a Chinese gong kicks off our Happy hours, and we’re still talking about the mysteriously disappearing cheese…
Denim Boyfriend Shirt Dress (Stone and Bleach Wash)
Megan, what is it about working at Sassy that keeps you coming back for more?
I’ve only been at Sassy for a few months now, but our team is absolutely incredible. We all work very hard, but have so much fun at the same time. Everyone is extremely dedicated and supportive. It was certainly a pleasant surprise to find such an amazing team to work with for my first job in Hong Kong. That aside, I’ve also always loved being the one to spread the word about places/products/experiences that I really love, so obviously Sassy is the perfect platform for that!
Tania & Megan, if you had to wear something for a week straight what would you wear?
Tania: This is definitely a tricky one. The unpredictability of Hong Kong (the indecisive weather, relentless aircons, last minute meetings, and pop-up events) means that dressing for an occasion, whilst still staying comfortable is often tricker than it should be. I’d say a simple black dress that can be toned down with a denim jacket and trainers, or dressed up for evenings out – but with the final stretch of summer behind us, I’m trading in my easy cotton tank dresses for my trusted jeans and go-to blouses. I’ve fallen head-over-heels (thankfully not literally) for Grana’s Marzipan Silk Cami. I could live in that for a week, no problem.
Denim Boyfriend Shirt Dress (Stone and Bleach Wash) & Denim Boyfriend Shirt (Stone Wash)
Megan: Well I certainly would have worn my wedding dress for a week straight, but I think we all know that could have gotten a bit weird. So realistically, you would either find me in super comfy jeans and a crisp top or any form of athleisure wear. I believe in 2 things; 1. You always want to put your best foot forward, even on your worst day, so even if I’m just wearing jeans and a tee shirt or yoga pants, it will always look clean and put together, and 2. If you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, whatever that may be, it will show. I feel like people exude a more confident energy than when they’re wearing something that’s a bit uncomfortable – because that’s the only thing they’ll be worried about. I actually had my bridesmaids each choose their own style dress for this very reason. They each chose what suited them best and it really proved to be the right move. They were all glowing (inside and out) the day of!
Tania, how do you think Megan’s style reflects her personality?
Meg’s day-to-day office wear is chic, classy and well-considered, with a focus on edgy accessories. As our Style Partnerships Manager, the Sassy Girls completely trust that she’ll be up to date with all the latest trends, whilst still staying true to those timeless classics! Without a doubt, Meg will be dressed for the occasion and styled with ease. Her put-together, modern look is definitely in line with her energetic, charismatic, down-to-earth personality. To give you a bit of background, this Sassy Girl wore a pair of healed converse on her wedding day! Paired with her stunning white gown, I think that epitomises her sophisticated, yet quirky style and personality. It’s a real skill to merge poised confidence with an energetic effortlessness, and that’s something Meg does naturally!
Megan, how do you think Tania’s style reflects her personality?
Well for one, I think Tania captained her own ship in a past life as she almost always has a bit of a preppy, nautical theme to her outfits. Hilariously, she didn’t realize this until very recently when we pointed it out and she went home and looked through her closet. That said, she really does have a beautifully tailored and classic sense of style with a bit of a modern twist. She is always very well put together and can effortlessly transform her look from day to night with the addition of a statement necklace or quick change of shoes. Her style truly reflects her bright, fun-loving, go-with-the-flow personality. Even on the most stressful of days she always has a smile on her face and exudes an incredible sense of calm. Coming from someone with zero poker face whatsoever, I find it to be such an amazing quality!
Silk V-Neck Slip Dress (Mulberry)
Tania, prints or plain?
Generally plain, simple, classic looks tick all the boxes for me. Whilst there are plenty of printed pieces I adore, I’m primarily drawn to minimalistic patterns and designs – especially in the cooler months. I’ve recently noticed (thanks Meg!) just how much I’ve been shamelessly overwearing navy and white stripes. Oops. As long as you’re avoiding falling into a rut, I think it can be very empowering to stick to looks that feel comfortable. It’s great to be up to date with the latest trends, but keeping aligned with your sense of self is where all the crazy creativity comes in (making tops out of my grandma’s silk scarf collection? Tick!). When it comes to personal style, trying to be original can often defeat the purpose. It’s so much more fun just wearing what you like and letting that lead you out of your comfort zone at your own pace.
Megan, bold or neutral?
I typically like to have a fairly neutral base and then incorporate bold accessories, or if not bold, a lot of accessories so that they make a statement. I have a pretty big obsession with jewellery, and somehow never have enough!
Denim Tee Dress (Stone Wash) & Denim Boyfriend Shirt Dress (Stone and Bleach Wash)
Megan, what do you like to get up to in your free time?
I love getting out and being active. We have a super high-energy dog, so we love taking him on hikes or out on the water – he has become a champion swimmer since living here! My husband and I have also caught the travel bug, so we’re packing in as many trips and experiences as we can. Coming from NYC, we’re really taking advantage of all that Hong Kong and Asia has to offer!
Silk V-Neck Slip Dress (Mulberry)
Tania, as the changing of the seasons are upon us, what’s your favourite season? Why?
In Hong Kong? Autumn. There’s nothing like the sigh of relief the city exhales with the first hint of a breeze! It’s a huge relief to walk to the MTR without breaking a sweat. Although our seasons are subdued, the slight temperature shift is enough to give style a bit more breathing room. I’ve always been concerned with the material of clothing (100% cotton is fool-proof for transitional times!) because fabric is really what keeps you cool through the summer and cozy through winter. Plus, autumn is the ideal time to layer your way through combinations of snug dresses, playful denims, and lightweight knitwear. Who said you have to compromise comfort for style?
Denim Tee Dress (Stone Wash) & Denim Boyfriend Shirt Dress (Stone and Bleach Wash)
life / by Grana / 09.08.16