Writer: Clara Yip
Hong Kong, meet your newest fashion love affair — Sense By Mei, the Chinese-born label that’s been turning heads with its modern twist on tradition, fearless femininity, and a mission to make every woman feel like their very own main character. As the brand marks its sixth anniversary and its first year in Hong Kong, we sat down with Sense By Mei’s founder, Mei Li and designer Jay Gao to chat about passion, perseverance, and why a sprinkle of unapologetic confidence goes a long way.
Six years ago, founder Mei started with nothing but a dream and a killer influencer following. Fast-forward to today, Sense By Mei is serving modern Chinese Qi Pao that’s as office-appropriate as it is runway-ready. Mei’s designs aren’t just clothes. They’re a statement. After being mistaken for Japanese or Korean abroad, she doubled down on Chinese heritage, blending traditional silhouettes with bold, curve-loving cuts. The result? Inspiring thousands in the international market.
But let’s not sugarcoat it – COVID, just like for all other businesses, was a rocky path for Mei. “I almost wanted to shut down the company; it was very difficult,” Mei admits. Salaries were shaky, losses piled up, and they were on the verge of bankruptcy. Nevertheless, thanks to a fiercely loyal community (shoutout to the fans and friends who basically willed them back to life), the brand ultimately clawed its way to profit this year. “We are actually starting to gain profits. I think we’re already incredible.”
Indubitably, unapologetic femininity is Sense By Mei’s key to thriving in the increasingly competitive world of fashion. There is no doubt that East Asian women face brutal beauty standards — lighter skin, petite frames, and don’t-outshine-the-men ‘s energy. “They ask us to cover their arms, and cover their everything,” the designer sighs, “Through my eyes, you’re already perfect.” The collections scream joy: rose red, citrus orange, and daring purples hug the beautiful curves of the female form. Critics call it “too feminist.” The team’s response? “In this society, as long as you can make women feel confident, you are doing something right.” Along with their use of a unique East-meets-West style mashup between tradition and contemporary designs, with Mei’s modernistic Qi Pao meeting the sharpness of local workplace culture. “We want to create something to suit this city,” the designer notes, “We want to keep the tradition, but also move forward to modernity.”
As they blow out six candles, the team is stunned and grateful for Hong Kong’s welcoming embrace. “We never knew we would have these local customers to support us and grow as a community. That’s something we never dreamt of,” claims the designer. From celebrity friends to everyday fashion rebels, the love has been unreal. Just as Mei says, “It’s all about the determination that comes along with passion.”
Welcome to the family, Sense By Mei. Hong Kong’s wardrobe just got a whole lot bolder – we can’t wait to see the magic you’re going to bring to us in the near future.
Address: Causeway Bay, Hennessy Rd, 500号號10层L1002 Hysan Place
