Impact of ‘This Side of Paradise’ on a Fashion Creative’s Journey

Christine Chow, the co-founder and creative director of the Hong Kong-based sustainable fashion label Tove & Libra, shares a profound connection with F. Scott Fitzgerald‘s debut novel, “This Side of Paradise.” This coming-of-age story, set in the backdrop of the Jazz Age, played a significant role in shaping her creative journey, blending literary inspiration with fashion.

Growing up in Singapore, Christine’s passion for reading was self-nurtured, distinct from her family’s interests. During her teenage years, Christine delved into the world of classics, discovering “This Side of Paradise” at the pivotal age of 15. The novel’s exploration of youth, identity, and romanticism struck a chord with her, resonating with her aspirations and curiosity about the American east coast lifestyle, particularly the university experience.

Fitzgerald’s poetic and romantic narrative style transported Christine to a different era, encapsulating the charm and allure of the Jazz Age. The novel’s final line, “I know myself … but that is all,” left an indelible mark on her, symbolizing the culmination of a personal journey for Fitzgerald’s protagonist and igniting a long-lasting impact on Christine.

This literary encounter led Christine to immerse herself in Fitzgerald’s other works, deepening her appreciation for his writing. Simultaneously, her fascination with the novel introduced her to the world of art deco design, which she grew to love profoundly. This newfound interest in art deco significantly influenced her creative pursuits, from her college major in studio art to her professional endeavors in design.

Christine’s exploration of art deco is evident in her work, including her freelance projects for Chocolat Moderne in New York. Her designs for the boutique chocolate brand’s packaging and chocolates, inspired by Japanese flavors, showcased her ability to integrate art deco elements into modern aesthetics.

As Christine ventured into the realm of fashion with Tove & Libra, the principles of art deco continued to influence her. The era’s shift towards streamlined, effortless chic fashion resonated with her design philosophy. The novel’s depiction of changing fashion trends, like the introduction of pants for women and the move away from constricting clothing, paralleled her vision for creating stylish yet comfortable attire.

Christine Chow’s journey, intertwined with the narrative of “This Side of Paradise,” exemplifies how literature can profoundly influence one’s artistic expression. Her fusion of literary inspiration with fashion design highlights the timeless impact of Fitzgerald’s work on creative minds across generations and industries.

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