Q&A: Bee Nguyen + Hot Air SS10

February 17, 2010 by Fashion
Filed under Featured Posts, In this Issue

1. What’s your AMMO? (What inspires you daily?)

My daily AMMO can be drawn from my family, friends, social networks i.e. Twitter, Facebook, world events. Honestly I find inspiration in almost everything.

2. When was Hot Air founded and what was the inspiration behind the brand and the name?

Hot Air was founded in 2007. We were inspired by the sport of Hot Air ballooning and the many colors and patterns found on the actual balloons. We felt that there was a void for a clothing brand that actually caters to this affluent global sport so we created; Hot Air.

3. How do you stay relevant in the fashion world with all of these new brands that pop up?

I think we remain relevant in the market place by way of our designs, our fabrications, who we align ourselves with as far as product placements and brand collaborations. The individuals that comprise Hot Air are very talented, relevant and have been proven forces in the game for quite some time, so we have a great foundation for longevity.

4. What are your goals for Hot Air for the next five years?

Our goals for Hot Air within the next five years would be to be distributed in top tier retailers globally, possible flagship stores, a huge brand following, a full blown collection of apparel, accessories, and home furnishings, and perhaps becoming a part of an even bigger conglomerate, i.e. fashion house.

5. How do you feel about brands that express social and political views with their brand?

I think that is part of the artistic beauty of fashion, being able to use it as a medium for self-expression is a part of what fashion is all about. Granted you may win or lose some consumers with your message, but not everyone can wear everything.

6. What business minds do you admire and why?

I really admire trailblazers like Sir Richard Branson, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs. They are all are successful because they have managed to turn their businesses into lifestyles, and I think that is key to having a longstanding successful company.

7. Where can Hot Air be found?

A few select doors such as Wish (ATL) MetroPark (select doors nationwide) Da Bakery (Bronx, NYC) Enclave (CT), Karmaloop.com, MAJOR (D.C.) Tobi (S.F.)