Jeanine Hsu is passionate about making a positive impact. So it was only natural that when she founded her jewellery label, niin, she did so with sustainable and ethical practices at its core. We spoke to the designer about what makes her happy and how she makes time for the little things she loves in life.


Tell us a bit about you and what you do.

I am the founder and designer of the brand, niin. I design jewellery and accessories which are handcrafted using natural materials, with sustainability and ethical practices at our core.  

What are you most passionate about?

I’m most passionate about design and respecting nature. Creating beautiful designs out of materials that the earth provides, and what would otherwise often be seen as waste is what I love doing most, whilst spreading the message to tread lightly on the earth at the same time. Basically, finding creative and stylish solutions to how we can lessen our impact on the environment.

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Moses Ng/Hong Kong Tatler

What makes you smile?

Making people happy, and finding ways to give back and make a difference. I love working with charities and community collaborations. When I get feedback that through my work I  have made an impact—even a small one—it makes me smile.

Someone you look up to?

My auntie Arlind. She has supported my endeavours ever since I can remember. She opened my mind to so much, from nurturing my creativity to discussing spirituality. She encouraged me to stay strong on this path I always wanted to follow, having had her own (advertising) business too.

The one thing you can’t live without?

My 2.5-year-old son, Kai. He lights up my world. 

On the flip side, what is one thing you could do or have less of in order to improve your life?

Having less in my cupboards. Although I don't go shopping much, I seem to have accumulated so much over the years.Being sentimental and an avid designer, I tend to keep things thinking that I will later re-use or re-design it somehow, which I often do.

With a stylish mother and sister, I have gladly accepted hand-me-downs too, but this means I have stored way too many things where there could ideally be some space.

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Moses Ng/Hong Kong Tatler

How do you find balance in busy Hong Kong?

It goes in waves. Hiking and doing yoga regularly helps me really find balance, but saying "no" more helps me be sure I have enough hours in the day to get everything done. Building a brand requires a lot of time, so managing my diary to spend enough quality time with my family and friends is my main goal/struggle.

What are some of your self-care rituals (when it comes to beauty & skincare)?

I cleanse my skin both morning and night, use toner and organic natural oil serum to moisturise. 

How do you spend your free time?

Generally outdoorsy things with family and friends. I enjoy meditation classes and yoga too. And I love my food.

Why do you believe it’s important to take some time out for yourself?

We all need some quiet time to reflect and calm our busy minds. Life can get way too hectic, otherwise.

What are some of the simple things in life that you enjoy?

Nature is my solace. I love taking my shoes off and walking barefoot in the sand, grass or ground.

What does the term "less is more" mean to you?

There is actually a poem by Lao Tzu called "Less is More". It's a beautiful and simple poem reminding us to go with the flow of life and not push too hard. My interpretation of it is to have faith in nature.

The beginning reads: "Less and less do you need to force things, until finally you arrive at non-action. When nothing is done, nothing is left undone."

It ends saying: "Practice not-doing, and everything will fall into place."

I try to live like this when I can, but we need to constantly remind ourselves in the busy lives that we lead.

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Moses Ng/Hong Kong Tatler | Styling: Morning Lau

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Jeanine cares greatly about the environment, so much so that she's built her jewellery business on ethical and sustainable practices. FANCL advocates "No Preservatives" products, offering essential ingredients that are beneficial to skin without the use of harmful preservatives. As the founder of niin, Jeanine is constantly busy, which can potentially accelerate her skin's collagen loss. As a topical remedy, the Aging Care Lotion & Emulsion facilitates collagen synthesis and repairs damaged cells. To replenish collagen from within, FANCL's Tense up collagen drink helps as an inner beauty agent to give Jeanine youthful, bouncy skin. 


The ‘Less Is More’ series is brought to you by FANCL, the industry pioneer of preservative-free skincare. With two state-of-the-art research and development facilities in Japan, FANCL is the only skincare brand that offers science-backed skincare products and health supplements that are completely free of harmful preservatives, resulting in long-lasting beauty, inside and out.

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