Journey Together for Greater Distances

There is a saying that "Motherhood is difficult but rewarding.” While childbirth and child-rearing are challenging, the rewards are invaluable. This sentiment resonates with the story of a mother and daughter from Foxiedox, a fashion brand known for its feminine style and motto "For the woman with style, substance and passion." The designer mother and her daughter, who manages the company, embody this quote. Despite a busy schedule, the mother nurtured her daughter, who now stands as a reliable partner. Although the brand is less familiar to Koreans, Foxiedox, founded by these two women, is widely available in major department stores including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and Macy’s. Their story brings to mind an Indian proverb: "If you want to go far, go together." Mom & I had the privilege of meeting this extraordinary duo, who are CEO and designer, business partners, and best friends walking a long journey together.

Interview and Text: Cho Gabi  
Photo: Joseph Bae  
Hairstylist: Kim Soomi (Aate Beauty)  
Makeup Artist: Agnes Hong

Location Sponsor: RPM Underground

The interview began at Aate Beauty in Manhattan's K-Town. Ms. Su and Stephanie, the mother and daughter invited to the May People’s Corner, were first greeted by makeup artist Agnes Hong and hairstylist Kim Soomi. After about an hour of makeup and hair styling for a cover shoot, we moved to the interview location at RPM Underground in Midtown. Known for its karaoke, RPM Underground is best described as an avant-garde and artistic venue with rooms filled with antique items collected by the owner. For our fashion experts, we settled in the Sewing room, adorned with sewing machines and mannequins — the perfect setting to discuss their lives as designers, businesswomen, and mother and daughter. Just as we were starting the interview, Stephanie apologetically asked, “Can I answer in English?” We request your understanding as her responses have been translated into English.

Greetings, Su and Stephanie. Please introduce yourselves.

Su  
Hello, I’m designer Su Yong, and this is Stephanie, my daughter and business partner, who is the Foxiedox Brand Director. We have been running the brand Foxiedox together for three years. I immigrated to Brazil in 1970, came to the U.S. in 1984 to attend Parson School, and studied fashion design. After graduating, I worked for a long time as a designer at clothing companies like Anne Klein and Donna Karan. Eventually, I wanted to start a private label, so I opened a company named Suanna on Manhattan’s 7th Avenue and expanded business to Seoul and Hong Kong. After having my third child, I wound things down. Once my third child grew up a bit, I worked in design and consulting at Victor Hugo for a long time, until Stephanie proposed creating Foxiedox. She had been working in investment banking and now manages the brand's operations and overall aspects.

Was there a special reason for deciding to go into business together?

Su  
Actually, Stephanie saw how busy and hardworking I was, so she used to say she would never work in fashion. When she first proposed the brand, I initially refused. However, her sincerity and passion became apparent over multiple proposals. So I gave her a task: "Go to China and study the fashion factories and industry thoroughly. If, after experiencing the field, you believe you can do it, then let's consider it again." On reflecting, I realized that as a designer, I hadn't sketched much in the companies I worked for since I played managerial roles. This seemed like an opportunity to concentrate on the design I truly loved, while also nurturing my daughter's talents. Now, I can focus on design and product development while Stephanie oversees operations as Brand Director, employing her skills in media operation, networking, and more.

Stephanie, what made you choose fashion as a career all of a sudden?

Stephanie  
After I finished working in investment banking, the work felt soulless, lacking purpose and meaning, merely to earn a living. I’m resourceful and need to survive, but I wanted both purpose and meaning. I looked at my mom as a great resource. I have qualities she doesn't, and she has qualities I don’t, making us a perfect match.

Are there challenges in a mother-daughter business partnership?

Su  
While formally partners, as a mother, I’m more concerned about my daughter's success than my own. Initially, seeing her as my business partner felt overwhelming, recalling her as a child. This adjustment took about two years. Gradually, through arguments and reconciliations, trust was built, now making us lucky in our partnership.

Stephanie  
The thin line between personal and professional life can make matters complex, blending personal and professional realms. If passionate, personal and professional lives always mix. However, it allows me to be myself and communicate freely.

What is the charm of the fashion industry for you, having worked in it your entire career?

Su  
Design is creative, creating something new and leading trends and changes. Fashion embodies beauty and artistic expression. Designing clothes is joyful and fulfilling for me, transcending mere commerce.

Stephanie  
The constant change and evolution in fashion are fascinating, allowing individual expression and evoking emotions. It's about personal fulfillment and inclusion or exclusion.

How do you maintain your health amidst the demanding fashion industry?

Su  
I meditate frequently, usually for about 20 minutes in the morning. Though not a Buddhist, meditation is rewarding and beneficial. While I come from a Christian household, I read Buddhist books, as meditation helps maintain inner peace and mental health. I also practice yoga and hiking for physical fitness.

Stephanie  
I'm beginning meditation, learning from my mom. It’s challenging but beneficial, helping mind control. I’m just starting and find it interesting yet tricky.

With fashion constantly evolving, what advice would you give to students in fashion?

Su  
I worry when meeting fashion students, given the industry's difficulty and job scarcity. Still, I encourage perseverance in one’s beliefs and passion, as success will follow for dedicated designers.

Stephanie  
My primary advice is to remain true to oneself, not trying to be something else.

How was Stephanie as a child?

Su  
Oh, she was strong-willed and energetic, often leaving churchgoers wondering how I managed her. She socialized a lot, but during college prep, she transformed, eventually making the Dean's List. She has strong beliefs and self-confidence.

What was your mom like, and how do you view her as a designer?

Stephanie  
As a child, my mom seemed like a superwoman—perfect in every role—until I realized she too evolved. She’s the epitome of never being too late for growth. Having her as a world-class designer is invaluable.

Outside work, how do you spend mother-daughter time?

Su  
In Hong Kong, we hike and stay active; in New York, we cook together; in London, we explore dining or enjoy park strolls.

What would you thank your mom for on Mother’s Day?

Stephanie  
Thanks for providing life’s tools, not pressuring me to conform but allowing me to pursue my vision and dreams.

Any blessing for Stephanie on becoming a mother?

Su  
Becoming a mother is life's finest experience. Should Stephanie become a mother, I hope she enjoys unconditional love and the joys of parenting.

Foxiedox 2019 Mother’s Day Campaign

Fashion brand Foxiedox annually hosts a Spring/Summer Collection Event. This season, noted for femininity and delicateness, is apt for their signature style. The 2019 Mother’s Day campaign, however, involves gathering designer Su Yong's friends, many with daughters, to join and photograph in Foxiedox attire. Under the theme "Beyond Race and Age," 10% of campaign proceeds will be donated to Moms to Mom NYC Foundation.

We extend our gratitude to sponsors for their support in our special Mother’s Day interview.

Location Sponsor: RPM Underground-Karaoke, Bar, Performance Event Venue  
244 W54th Street New York, NY 10019  
www.facebook.com/rpmunderground

Hairstylist: Soomi Kim  
Makeup Artist: Agnes Hong

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