Social Happiness Lab

This jumper was a gift from my wife early in our relationship. It’s moved with me from the UK, to Hong Kong, to Norway, and back to the UK but 20 years later it’s as sturdy as ever — particularly impressive since I’m not known for taking care of my clothes! It’s picked up a few paint stains here and there, but still keeps me comfortable when working in the garden on damp spring mornings.

I’ve owned this down coat for 9 years. It’s my one of my best buys on Taobao, as it makes me feel money worth spent—knowing that online purchases come with uncertainties. I like the vivid colour—making you feel elevated in the dark winter days and the utmost warmth it brings. If my body shape doesn’t change, I will keep it as long as possible

This is my favourite coat that is made to order by an European design. It is not cheap, but the high quality has converted me into a fan of independent brands that make long-lasting, stylish clothes. The avant-garde cut, especially at the back, reflects my preference for dark, unconventional clothing items. It is edgy in a subdued way that allows me to wear at work while not losing my personal, gothic-ish style.

This was a present I got from my friend before she left the country with her family. It’s really comfortable and cozy to wear around during spring and summer.

 

I really like this top because it has a little print of my favourite cartoon character – Gudetama – both perfectly-sized and well-plaaced on the shirt, making it easy to style. The fabric also has a comfortable texture and is nice to put on. I have had this top for many years now and the character hasn’t faded away despite having washed it so many times.

 

As a fashion designer, I’ve always been surrounded by clothes, so picking a single “favorite” piece from my wardrobe has never been easy. I like many garments for different reasons—some for their memories, others for their construction—but if I had to choose just one, it would be this piece I designed myself. It has a silhouette that feels both structured and relaxed, with thoughtful details that reflect a quiet sense of individuality. The fabric is a textured cotton-linen blend with a bit of natural crinkle, thick enough to hold shape but soft enough to move with the body. I deliberately chose an undyed off-white tone—it feels calm, raw, and grounding. As someone who advocates for sustainable fashion, I’m drawn to clothes that not only look good but are versatile and long-lasting, pieces I can wear across different parts of my life without thinking twice. This one does exactly that—it works for work, for daily life, even for travel. It makes me feel comfortable and confident, without trying too hard. More than anything, it feels like something that quietly stays with me, like a soft reminder of the kind of person I hope to be.

 

I love this green polo shirt. It’s just such a nice colour green.
It was expensive from Theory and I just love it.

I keep it for best so I don’t get bored of it.

My green flannel shirt. The piece of clothing that people associate with me the most. I bought this shirt in 2021, and it’s been through every scenario possible. It’s been to concerts, used as a picnic blanket, a warm layer, to shelter from the rain. The colours have faded from wear now, and every year when I pull it out my wardrobe when it warms up I get reminded of all the fun I’ve had in it. There really isn’t a day in the summer when I’m not wearing it. If someone I know is looking for me in a crowd, this is what they look for. No repairs yet, but I know the day I have to fix a rip, I’m going to do it so carefully and treat it with as much respect as it deserves.

I got this coat / jacket from Fukuoka airport, just before boarding… interesting piece but I didn’t want to buy it in the first place.. but then my wife kept saying yeah, it’s cool, and it’s difficult to buy a genuine Japanese made garment.. is that the Japanese obsession or impulsive buying of the gentle nudge from my wife? I don’t know, but here it is, a winter garment which is sitting in my wardrobe for the entire summer…

 

I found this brand new blazer from River Island, with all tags, plastic cover and a fresh smell. This happened when I started charity shopping and found it in between old clothes. I bought it for 15£ but worth 70£. I felt very happy as I tend to wear formal outfits, quite often. I love it so much, white and shiny with a touch of elegance and modesty.

 

Tried my hand at altering this coat for the first time , just tightened the waist a bit, though honestly, I definitely could’ve gone further with the shape. Still, it means a lot to me because I did it with my grandma, who taught me how to sew. It wasn’t perfect, but learning from her made it feel really special. Every time I wear it, I think of that moment where both of us were trying to figure it out together, laughing at the crooked stitches and celebrating the small wins. It might just be a coat, but it’s stitched with a memory I’ll never forget. 

 

This rain coat was the first time I splashed out on a good brand and it has been worth every penny! I can wear it for everything from hiking in the rain to skiing and I know I can trust it to keep me completely dry. I’m hoping it will last my lifetime as it’s my favourite item of clothing that I own.