The Man For All Seasons

The Creative Mind

"Unlock your mind; live and think outside the box."

Simon says...

Wanderer’s Journey

Simon Chang has affected the way women dress, and the colour of the rooms we live in. But the internationally renowned fashion designer never has his heart too far from Vancouver where he still makes time to visit his high school and the Emily Carr University of Art and Design. He continually reminds students to dream about their future and try something different. This is how he became who he is today.

Born in Canton, China but growing up in Vancouver, Chang was the great-grandson of pioneer merchant, Chang Toy. After graduating from Britannia Secondary, he attended Emily Carr on a full scholarship from Hudson’s Bay Company where he majored in photography and graphic design.

On a visit to Vancouver, the head of the Montreal Branch of Hudson’s Bay offered Chang an attractive opportunity, but instead Chang chose to travel, wanting to experience first hand art in every form, medium, and shape. He especially loved New York, the mecca for American art and fashion. The Broadway musicals, art exhibits, and bohemian streetscapes sparked his imagination.

Eventually he did make his way to Montreal and accepted the opportunity to work for the Hudson’s Bay fashion buying office. There he worked his way up the ladder, learning everything he could about the fashion, textile, and garment industries.

His first independent design endeavour was International Tyfoon, a line of affordable ready-to-wear for the working woman, incorporating colour with striking patterns and images, and reflecting Chang’s early career in graphic arts and photography. It also revolutionized the concept of office wear:

Chang had created a full line of interchangeable clothing that doubled as office and casual wear.

During his career he has done it all, venturing into many different fashion commodities and creating head-to-toe accessories to complete the wardrobe.

He was also the designer for Air Transat in-flight uniforms and the Quebec provincial police amongst many others, creating a signature corporate image.

Home Hardware chose Chang to become their Style and Colour expert for its Beauti-Tone Paint division, resulting in his "OH Canada" Colour Card, reflecting different regions of the country through colour and light scheme. He visited big and small towns across the country engaging and inspiring customers and dealers. The result was a concept palette for each area: Pacific Overture for the West Coast; Wheat Till You Try It for the Prairies; and Savoir Flair, which celebrates the French heritage of Quebec.

Chang believes in giving back and in 1986 he founded the Simon Chang and Phyllis Levine Foundation, which donates money for research in areas of breast cancer, pediatric disorders, heart disease and AIDS. It also supports education and social organizations that help less fortunate Canadians – offering everything from sports programs for children to funding for women’s shelters. In 2008. The designer was honoured with the Order of Canada “for his contributions to the fashion industry and for his philanthropic and social engagement.”

(excerpt from the book: Celebration Chinese Canadian Legacies in British Columbia)

The Designer

Pure Imagination

"Fashion is the only game you win by breaking the rules."

Simon says...

Creative Chronicle

  • One of Canada’s most commercially successful and versatile designers
  • Canadian fashion industry powerhouse and innovator whose fashion collections exude zest for life
  • Attention to detail and lavish use of bold colors in designs synonymous with excellence, versatility, and comfort
  • Creation of signature fragrances for men and women
  • Fashions are timeless, chic and practical, for home@work, for work@home and ready-to-wear for ready-to-go. Redefined fashion basics with denim and casualwear.
  • As an extension to signature collection, licensed various products including scarves, eyewear, watches, jewelry, lingerie, healthcare uniforms, outerwear, men’s shirts and ties, and corporate apparel.
  • Expanded into the world of fashion home accessories with kitchenware, bedding, cushions, paint and home furnishings.

Recognition

Order of Canada ceremony with Governor General Michaëlle Jean and Jean-Daniel Lafond

2000

In 2000, Simon Chang received The Emily Award for "Outstanding Career Achievement by an Alumni" of Emily Carr University of Art + Design

2008

In 2008, Simon Chang was honored by Governor-General Michaelle Jean with the Order of Canada for his contribution to the Canadian fashion industry and for his philanthropic and social engagements.

2013

In 2013, Simon Chang was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his continued dedication to the service of his peers, his community and to Canada.

"Be grateful for what you have, work hard for what you don’t have.
Stop complaining and start working.
I never dreamed about success - I worked for it."

Simon says...