From The Straits Times    |

Q & A

Ms Evon Chng, 27, freelance fashion stylist, single

How would you describe your style?

It is tough to describe because it is always changing – from goth to streetwear to minimalist fashion. I like to put a twist on things. For example, wearing vintage pieces in a modern way or boyish suits in a feminine manner.

When did your interest in fashion start?

I’ve liked to dress up since I was a child. I was experimental even with the type of shoes, socks and hair accessories I wore in primary school. I wore lace-up sneakers instead of Mary Jane shoes so I would not look so feminine like the other girls.

Who are your favourite designers and go-to brands?

I’m not fussy about the designer or brand, but the item has to be well made.

I buy a lot of Saint Laurent and French hipster label The Kooples. I also mix in brands such as Zara, H&M and Uniqlo and Singapore brands Klarra, Eight Slate and Exhibit.

Who are your style icons?

I don’t have one I always look to, but if I have to name some, they are English model Kate Moss and American fashion designer Mary-Kate Olsen for being style icons of their respective generations, and singer- songwriter Rihanna because people always notice what she is wearing even if they might not like it.

What are your favourite pieces in your wardrobe?

I like these optical glasses from Singapore label Visual Mass (main picture) because the nanny vibe is a great contrast to a modern outfit; a bomber jacket from Swiss label Bally (main picture) because the retro fit adds a quirky touch to my outfits; a vintage Chanel bag (photo 1) because I like the idea of having a classic item that is old; a dress from Japanese label Noir Kei Ninomiya (photo 2) because it’s from a relatively unheard-of label; and these Saint Laurent boots (photo 3) – the studded accent gives a nice rock touch, but the silhouette is classic enough to match the rest of my wardrobe.

What are your weaknesses when it comes to shopping?

Vintage items and things that are one-of-a-kind, exclusive or rare. I’m also a strategic shopper in that if an item I like has a higher perceived value than its retail price, I will buy it.

What is your favourite splurge piece?

My Rolex watch (photo 4). I bought it for about $4,000 as a gift to myself when I entered a new working phase in my life a few years ago.

Is there a purchase you have regretted?

I regret splurging on many winter coats because it’s summer all year round in Singapore and I wear them only on vacations. So when you break down the cost per wear, it’s not very economical.

What is your most recent purchase?

A brown blouse (photo 5, $69) from Klarra, a go-to brand for basics. Its pieces are affordable and well- made.

What is the best shopping or style advice you live by?

You do not need expensive things to look good.

A version of this story was originally published in The Straits Times on July 14, 2016. For more stories like this, head to www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle.