Meet Angela Chen, born in Taiwan, raised in Vancouver, a graduate of Parsons the New School for Design in New York, and the fashion designer behind Orange NYC.

Why is Vancouver a good city for independent design? Because local merchants are very supportive of independent designers and there are many opportunities and places to sell your line.

Most exciting Orange moment to date? At the opening gala of the first store that carried my collection. “Debut” in Soho, NYC.

If there was a Orange soundtrack, what would it sound like? An awkward mixture of Taiwanese Pop songs, oldies, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Jazz (monks dream), Lisa Ono.

Three things about the Southlands neighborhood that makes you want to live there: trees, secluded, peace and quiet.

Four words that capture your design style: Minimal, structured yet feminine.

The moment you realized clothing design was more than just a hobby: When I received the acceptance letter from Parsons, The New School for Design I realized it was no joke.

A Spring 2010 Orange item every girl should have? Everything is essential!

Is there a local designer or artist that you admire above all others? Alex Lu is one of my favourite artists/graphic designers. His paintings have the same feeling as my design. The beautiful ropes on raw canvas are exquisite and extremely delicate.

Best Vancouver place to be inspired by emerging artistic talent: People watching at any gallery opening. Attendees have a very distinctive way of dress…very New York in some ways.

Three places you like to take out-of-town guests: Granville Island. Whistler. Gastown.

Tell us about some of your favorite local haunts: For food, Cafe Zen…cant have enough of the Benny’s…or any type of breakfast, period. For clothing and jewelry, all independent designer boutiques.

Core beliefs that have kept you going in fashion: You have to have faith in yourself. Don’t start in this industry if you don’t love what you do.

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