There’s something about people who pursue their first love: the glimmer in their eyes, the blush on their cheeks, the skip in their step. For people who pursue a career they love, this passion drives them and sets them apart. This holds true for Ashley Kong, owner and designer of Silla Designs. “I have always liked fashion and design,” says Ashley. And so in 2008, she got started with her own line of unique jewellery, laid out on a table at the local farmer’s market.
Ashley’s pieces were a constant hit at the markets, which led her to open her own shop. With her creativity and drive, it was inevitable that she would eventually expand Silla Designs to include fashion accessories, clothing and gifts. “We started with brands that I specifically picked,” says Ashley. “It is important that I think about the clothes in my shop because it’s a way for people to show their identity and their creativity.” Silla Designs carries a lot of items from independent designers and eventually began offering its own clothing label as well.
