Creating a vibe is an art – and it’s one of which Carol Tam is a master. Working at the intersection of culture and creativity, Carol is renowned in Hong Kong and across Asia for producing immersive curated soundscapes for luxury brands and exclusive events. As a DJ, her sound is bespoke and painstakingly curated to create the perfect atmosphere: whether polished and sophisticated for Tiffany & Co, or lively and electric for the opening of Hong Kong’s flagship Gucci store and Apefest Hong Kong, Carol has proven she can do it all.
Her expertise in music, fashion and photography, her background in Fine Arts and her impressive list of clientele makes Carol one of the most reputable and trusted creatives in Hong Kong – guaranteed to bring the vibe. PAKT sat down with Hong Kong’s favourite DJ to discuss the most meaningful items in her wardrobe.
1) What’s your go-to outfit?
My go-to outfit formula is pretty simple: baggy, mid-rise jeans for that relaxed feel, always paired with boots – I’m a boot girl, no question. I usually throw on a black tee, then layer depending on the weather – either a dress shirt or leather jacket. I like to mix things up with bags and shoes: that’s where the personality comes in. Sunglasses? Always.
2) What’s the most-worn item in your wardrobe?
Boots!
3) If a museum asked you to donate one item from your wardrobe that represented you, what would it be?
My pink Sanrio purse that I’ve had since I was a kid!
4) What’s the most meaningful item in your wardrobe?
The most meaningful pieces in my wardrobe are those tied to memories. A jade pendant that once belonged to my brother as a child, a tiny trinket bracelet, and a worn-in headband from my youth – things you wouldn’t think to save, yet somehow never forget. My mom still holds onto garments she wore while pregnant with us, and those pieces feel like soft time-capsules, faded but full of emotion.
And, of course, there are the icons: vintage Jean Paul Gaultier gems and treasured Phoebe Philo-era Celine pieces that I hold onto like future heirlooms.
5) Describe your style in 3 words.
Simple, comfortable and playful!
6) Who are your style icons?
That’s a tough question! Honestly, it could be anyone, whether it’s someone I see on-screen or just someone I pass by on the street.
7) What’s on your current fashion wish-list?
Anything vintage or Alaïa – I’m drawn to statement pieces! My partner gifted me the Alaïa White/Black Le Teckel Bag for my birthday, and I’m completely obsessed with it.
8) What will we never find in your wardrobe?
Flip flops.
9) What’s the best fashion advice you have received?
It’s definitely about playing with proportions. Mixing different shapes and sizes, like pairing oversized pieces with more fitted ones, creates a balanced and visually interesting look. My mom also taught me early on that your shoes should always match the bag, and that’s something that’s stuck with me.
10) A recent shopping find is…
…not so recent, but I’m loving the Loewe Ankle Boots with the trouser details on the toy pump structure.
11) What is your earliest fashion memory?
Skipping school to watch runway shows at my grandma’s apartment!
12) If you could go back in time, which fashion era would you choose and why?
I’m content with where we are today: taking inspiration from the past and making it uniquely our own. The ability to reference different eras and reimagine them in a modern context feels like the best of both worlds.
13) Who would you invite to your dream fashion dinner?
André Leon Talley, Dries Van Noten, Jenna Lyons, John Galliano, Law Roach, Marc Jacobs, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Matthieu Blazy, Pieter Mulier, Rei Kawakubo… the list goes on!
14) If you could have anyone’s wardrobe, whose would it be and why?
If I could have anyone’s wardrobe…it would be Lori Hirshleifer, Camille Charriere, and Miyako Bellizzi. They each have such a unique perspective that blends high-fashion with laid-back, and I love how they mix timeless pieces with bold, statement accessories. Their wardrobes always feel curated yet personal, which I admire.
15) What is your favourite fashion project that you’ve worked on?
From Jennie’s global Calvin Klein launch in Seoul, to Pharrell’s Louis Vuitton show in Hong Kong – these were definitely standout moments. Shout-out to the team at Advisory Council and Fed Tan for the amazing opportunities!
And of course, my time at JOYCE will always hold a special place. Fashion weeks were such a thrill, and I’ll never forget the time I had the chance to chat with Dries after his Fall/Winter 2020 show.
16) Who would be your dream collaborator and why?
My dream collaborators would be Rick Rubin, Mark Ronson, Willo Perron, Lykke Li, and Jamie xx. Each of them brings something so unique to the table, whether it’s their creative vision, musical genius, or ability to push boundaries.
17) Less or More?
More is more!
18) What are your top 3 accounts to follow on social media?
@evanrosskatz, @hommegirls, @samyoukilis
19) What are your favourite apps?
Besides Instagram and Spotify, I use STEP quite a bit when travelling. It’s a great way to keep track of places my friends are checking out and save recommendations for later. The curation is top tier.
20) What are your favourite tunes to get ready to?
I have a Spotify playlist called CAROL TAM’S ESSENTIAL PLAYLIST that’s always on shuffle. It’s a mixture of old-school classics, going-out tracks, and a little bit of everything in between.
21) What are the last three places you travelled to, and what are the can’t-miss shops?
San Francisco, California. This city always hits a nostalgic nerve for me – not just because I was born and raised here, but because there’s so much history on every street corner.
Haight-Ashbury is always a fun area to go vintage shopping. It’s chaotic in the best way: gritty, colorful and full of characters. Over in Fillmore, there are a couple of low-key gems worth checking out. The vibe’s a little more elevated, but it still has that personal, local charm.
Also, if you’re into music like I am, Amoeba Music is a zoo – in the best way. It’s a pilgrimage spot for music lovers. You can get lost in their vinyl collection for hours… It’s magic.
Austin, Texas. First stop? Allen’s Boots on South Congress. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, walking into that sea of leather and the smell of cowboy boots just hits. I left with a pair of cherry red ones I didn’t need, but don’t regret. The possibilities are endless.
Tokyo, Japan. Dover Street Market Ginza. Need I say more?
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