Private Policy is the brainchild of Haoran Li and Siying Qu, a concept-driven unisex label that challenges the boundaries of fashion by merging elements of high fashion, costume, and streetwear. Their imaginative fusion has drawn comparisons to vintage Comme des Garçons and Junya Watanabe, as well as Nick Cave’s whimsical soundsuits, thanks to their philosophical narratives and surreal presentations. Inspired by gender fluidity and globalization, the designers create eccentric, avant-garde pieces that exude hybrid charm, quirky wearability, and abundant originality. Standout items include satin velvet and silk wool varsity jackets, reversible raw-edged bombers, and jumpers adorned with artistic appliqués and playful onomatopoeia such as ‘TADA’ and ‘TakaTaka.’ They also offer striking paratrooper-inspired harnesses that complement outerwear, button-up shirts, or even short shorts for both women and men.
Hint Magazine visited their New York showroom for an interview:
Where are you from and what’s your background?
- Siying Qu: I’m originally from Qinghai in Western China. I came to the U.S. at 15 as an exchange student in North Carolina, later moved to NYC, and enrolled in Parsons.
- Haoran Li: I’m from Qingdao, China (pronounced like Tsingdao beer). Before launching Private Policy, we worked at various design houses and brands, including Alexander Wang, Calvin Klein, and 3.1 Phillip Lim.
How did you two connect?
We met at Parsons. Our friendship and creative partnership flourished from there.
What’s your core design philosophy?
We aim to create a high-impact, cosmopolitan brand that transcends gender binaries and elevates craftsmanship. Our fashion is fundamentally wearable and cool.
What recent influences have you incorporated into your collection?
One influence is the film Snowpiercer, which explores a dystopian future where an experiment to end global warming leaves Earth frozen and survivors trapped on a perpetually moving train, highlighting themes of social inequality, class hierarchy, and revolution. The film’s storyline, wardrobe design, and cinematography inspired us. Other recurring influences include youth culture, Chinese art history, unisex fashion, and modernist art.
How do you divide responsibilities in designing and marketing your collections?
Siying focuses on shape, silhouette, and style, while I concentrate on textiles and fabrication. Our creative vision is unified as we share the same aesthetic values and work towards common creative and business goals.
Which other Chinese brands do you admire?
We admire Andrea Jiapei Li and Ground-Zero for their blend of street-savvy and luxury appeal.
Who are your all-time favorite designers?
Rei Kawakubo and Raf Simons.
Favorite Chinese food in NYC?
China Blue at 135 Watts St in Chinatown!