Style and Branding with Tiffany Wong

Today I am excited to share with you the work of surface pattern designer, Tiffany Wong. 

I have been following Tiffany on Instagram for awhile and have fallen in love with her style, the simple elegance of her patterns and the soft, delicate feel of her color palettes. I've also taken note of how Tiffany presents herself, both on Instagram and on her blog. She has a very cohesive brand. And it is evident that, even though she is new to surface pattern design, out of the gate she is putting a lot of thought into how others are viewing her and her work.

For these reasons I just had to interview Tiffany to see if she could share with us how she pulls it all together. 

Please tell us a little bit about your background as an artist and how you got into surface pattern design.

Surface design is a new passion for me. However, my background is in apparel and graphic design. I got into surface design because I realized that it was the total package of all the things I know and love – design, art, apparel, home, stationery. To me, it’s the best of all worlds. 

How would you describe your signature style?

In three words I would describe my style as fun, free, and fresh. In other words, I design patterns that make me feel happy, with intentional imperfections, using clean, modern palettes.

Did it take you awhile to settle on a signature style? What was the process like for you?

It did take some time for me to settle on a signature style. I started out just designing and making patterns without really thinking about a style, and then laid them all out and tried to see if I could see some connection between them. It became more and more natural for me to design patterns that fit together.

To be honest, I am still settling on a signature style – I think it takes time to solidify your style, especially for someone just starting out. But, every pattern that I create gets me closer and closer.

Any tips for how someone can find their signature style?

I think it’s important to design what you like, what you know, and what you, yourself would buy or pick out in a store. Yes, it’s important to design what consumers will like, but to find your signature style your designs should be unique. 

I know you are new to Surface Pattern Design, but I love the way you are branding yourself and your work. Everything has a very cohesive feel. Can you offer advice for others who are just starting out and looking to establish a brand?

Thanks, Jen! I think in this case, consistence is key. I would advise anyone starting out to try your best to stay true and coherent to your signature style.  Create items that represent you the way you want to be known for. This should be consistent throughout your whole brand – this includes your business card, website, and all social media outlets.

A big focus for me now is building my Instagram account and creating the right content to post. I have become more particular about what I post so that my feed overall looks coherent. This sometimes means not posting an image that doesn’t seem to have the right brightness, color or feel. If you’re unsure,  don’t be afraid to engage with other people and take notes on how other successful brands market themselves. 

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in everyday life, my travel adventures, magazines, and social media. I keep my eyes open all the time and let myself be inspired by shapes, colours, and feelings around me. You never know what can spark your next creative idea! 

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a designer?

I think the biggest challenge is balancing the many hats you wear when you are trying to establish your own brand that does not involve designing. Unless you have a team to support you, many designers are probably also wearing the hat of a web designer, support technician, accountant, etc. It can be difficult to focus on what designers really want to do – design! 

Any other advice for folks just starting out?

Don’t be afraid to work hard and learn as much as you can! There are many great resources out there and lots of people willing to lend a helping hand. Check out blogs, Linkedin groups, design magazines and books. 

Want to see more of Tiffany's work? You can find her on Instagram or visit her website.