Interview with Kiwi Tiktok fashionista, Vikkipedia

Vikkipedia, aka Vikki Cheng, is an Auckland-based fashion content creator and is a proud lover of style and fashion. With over 13k Tiktok followers, Vikki loves to support NZ fashion, sharing new brands and styles, trying out trends and shining the light on sustainable fashion - and her followers love her for that too!

We talked to Vikki about how she became interested in fashion, and the person behind the screen.

How did you first get interested in fashion?

Ever since I was a child, I've had a keen interest in fashion. As the arty-farty kid who loved colouring and drawing, dressing up and playing with colours came naturally to me and felt like an extension of my creativity.

After completing my university degree and starting my first proper job, I decided to launch a fashion blog. I registered the domain name vikkipedia.org without a clear idea of where it would take me.

As I shared my plan with more people, they all started hassling me to get started. After holding onto the domain name for 5 years, I finally took the plunge and produced a series of fashion shoots to launch my blog. 

Since then, I have expanded my presence to TikTok, YouTube and Instagram to showcase my fashion style and point of view. Creating video content feels like a natural fit for me—I love the process of expressing myself through this medium.

What was your favourite outfit growing up?

As I reflect on my childhood wardrobe, I realise I never had a go-to outfit that I consistently reached for.

However, upon looking back on my old photos, this particular blue fur coat caught my eye. It’s a fire fit! I’d happily wear this whole outfit now, haha…

How did you identify your own style?

My personal style is all about the lack of consistency! I enjoy being a bit of a chameleon, dressing to match my mood or the occasion. However, one constant element is that I prioritise comfort above all else. I've realised that I no longer want to wear clothing that makes me feel uncomfortable or restricted.

What made you first start making Tiktoks, and what has the journey been like?

I first dabbled in the world of TikTok in 2018, when the app first made its way to New Zealand. Initially, progress was slow, and my content was aimless; I simply uploaded what I was already sharing on Instagram, without any particular goals in mind.

But then the pandemic hit. To support local businesses during a challenging time, I began making videos to give small NZ fashion brands a shout-out, which proved to be a hit with the viewers. This gave me a clear direction on how to develop my TikTok account further.

I believe that TikTok has the potential to be a long-term platform for me. No hate to IG but TikTok allows me to talk about my interests and passions in a casual and authentic way—with my hair in a messy bun and no makeup! 

My future plan is to diversify my content and expand my reach. Although Aotearoa’s fashion and creative industries may be small, we’re bursting with unique ideas and valuable insights that the world shouldn’t sleep on!

What or who inspires your style?

My grandma. 🕊️ It wasn’t just her sense of style that inspired me, but also the way she carried herself with confidence. She was never afraid to experiment with fashion and dressed up to the nines, even in her nineties. Her attitude towards aging is something I aspire to emulate as I grow older.

I also draw inspiration from Iris Apfel, Tsuyoshi and Tomi Seki, who also embody a fearless and playful approach to fashion. I hope to maintain a sense of exploration and bravery like my gran and these other role models. Age should never be a barrier to self-expression, and I look forward to continuing to evolve my own personal style over time.

Thanks so much Vikki for your time! Make sure to follow her on YouTube, Instagram and Tiktok to support more NZ based brands and businesses.