Jennifer Kwan is the founder/creative director of J.KWAN which was launched in London of 2015. She was born in Canada and moved to London for her undergraduate and graduate studies.
She obtained her Fashion Marketing degree at London College of fashion and degree in Luxury Brand management at Regent’s University.
Having spent most of her adult life in London, Jennifer couldn’t imagine pursuing her vision elsewhere as her inspiration stems from the men and women off the streets of London. The city of London is definitely a place where people encounter and build lifelong friendships from all over the world. There are always new things and places to explore and discover. Although she is still very strongly attached to her Canadian roots, London has definitely become home after having lived a decade in this city.
We caught up with Jennifer for the latest in our ‘My London’ series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
Mayfair, when I first moved to London for University one of my campuses was on Davies street and I stayed in a flat behind the Claridges hotel so I could wake up 30mins before class and roll in, was definitely spoiled! The area created the best college memories, I loved taking short cuts around all those quiet back streets away from all the hustle and bustle of the main streets. Also made getting home after a night out in town a gem to walk home to.
Favourite place for brunch:
Hix in Soho serves one of the best Bloody Mary’s in town for bottomless brunch but definitely enjoy going for Roka’s weekend brunch in Canary Wharf. Beautiful views and amazing food, great spot to start the weekend with the girls.
Best coffee in London:
I don’t drink coffee, I’m more of a hot chocolate/tea type of girl. Best spot to grab a dark hot chocolate though has to be ‘Department of Coffee and Social Affairs’, premium stuff with the best people to help start off the day.
Favourite gallery or museum:
V&A and Science museum, I’m a nerd when it comes to earth science I get so fascinated and love finding inspiration from there. The V&A was my very first museum I’ve ever been to in London and it’s just so rich with historic art & installations, I can easily lose myself in there.
Tell us a secret:
I’m not good at sewing… but I know good craftsmanship!
Favourite place to shop:
Online, I actually don’t really like shopping, especially having to go through rails of clothing and people haha. I like discovering emerging brands and shop online with the anticipation of getting it delivered and being able to take my time to try it on in the comfort of my own home and space. That was also why I focused on starting my brand online with a more flexible returns and exchange policy.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
Cathedrals because I love the lighting in there when the sun shines through the windows and its architecture always inspires me. Also, the streets of London from every corner to high street, I love drawing a medium between the street styles of different parts of the city and creating pieces to fit their lifestyle.
Best London destination for a date:
The Vaults at Waterloo Station. They always have themed nights where you’re taken into another world for a night of adventure and mystery solving. It’s a fun and different way to spend date night with interactive role play involved.
Favourite park:
Definitely Regent’s Park’s inner circle at Queen Mary’s Rose Garden. It’s filled with immaculate Colours and the biggest roses I’ve ever seen. It’s a real life art piece surrounded by fountains, ponds and wildlife.
Favourite food market:
Borough Market definitely, it’s got the best quality of food and always something new to try.
Your sanctuary in the city:
Late at night when the city is sleeping, the only thing I’m with are my own thoughts. The air is crispier and lighter. Everything seems to be more calm and in my own pace, that’s my sanctuary.
What inspires you?
Films, the theatre, people watching, travelling and embodying new cultures.
This season I’m loving:
Hoodies!! Every version of it, from super cropped to oversized and wearing thigh high boots with them. Keepin it fresh with a touch a glam!
Velvet on everything
Tear away trousers! Reminds me of my pre-teens when all I wore were tear away trousers.
