Correct us if we’re wrong, but isn’t local pop quartet The Sam Willows’ Sandra Riley Tang one of the coolest girls of our generation? Sporting a head full of luscious, mermaid-coloured locks, she easily turns heads with her bold ‘do and devil-may-care confidence, not to mention her full and striking vocals.
The musician slash fitness fanatic is turning 28 on Christmas Day, and while most of her peers are still trying to find their footing, she has already made a name for herself with several achievements under her belt. Two studio albums, an extended EP, acting gigs and the co-founder of a fitness studio called The Yoga Collective are but just some of the things she has accomplished. What an inspiration.
Now apart from her magnificent mane and established career, her impeccable taste and style is also something we are truly envious of. Making casual look cooler than ever, here are some tips on how to pull off Sandra’s looks effortlessly.
Although black is a classic shade that is both slimming and universally appealing, you can sometimes run the risk of looking, well, boring. Sandra makes sure she avoids that conundrum by spicing her pieces up with various textures and fabric. In this look, she went with a sheer turtleneck top that showcased her va va voom lingerie, but tamed the hawtnessdown by throwing on a maxi cape and matching that with a pair of jeans and some heeled booties. Just the right doses of sensuality and sass. We like.
Dressing comfortably in Singapore’s weather does not mean you have to be in tees and denim shorts 24/7. Sandra gave casual a touch of flair with this denim overall and fitted tank top combo, topping it off with a boyish baseball cap — perfect to shield your skin away from the sun. Learn from Sandra and leave one shoulder strap unbuckled for that extra cool factor. Cute duck not included.
A little goes a long way. Whether it is for a red carpet gala or a wedding celebration, a simple and elegant black gown is a fail-safe option for any formal event. And Sandra knows this #fashionhack well. Here, she donned a tight-fitting number that flattered her curves perfectly. To give her look sophistication, she fashioned her locks into an elegant updo and wore a dainty necklace. So classy.
Getting ready for a romantic night? Cue this tip from Sandra: Play with different cuts and lengths and surprise him with a balance of sexuality and modesty. You can show off your arms, but make it fun but going with a long-sleeved toga. Want to flaunt your legs? Go with a maxi with a long side slit. Finish off the look with a pair of gladiator pumps to elevate your look.
If you’re a beach-lover, having the perfect cover-up is a must. But sometimes, you don’t have to splash out for a pricey piece. Make use of what you have in your closet instead. Sandra chose a silky smooth satin-blend shirt in beige, but if you don’t have one, any oversized, boyfriend-esque shirt works too. Work it with a bottle of booze while you’re tanning by the pool.
Stylish sportswear has taken the world by storm. These days, tights, crop tops and other types of activewear are no longer limited to just the gym. Many, like Sandra, have started incorporating them into their everyday wardrobe. But instead of heading out the door in your leggings, give it a fun twist like Sandra, who rocked the athleisure trend by dressing a pair of sneakers with a side slit skirt (that shows off her toned calves). Add edge by donning a baseball cap.
Travelling in style can be a pain when you have limited luggage space despite a desire to look fabulous. Do it the way Sandra does, by going with versatile garments that allow you to create different looks. Here, she pieced an ensemble together with a few travel staples — a camel pullover, a pair of denim jeans and some white kicks. They’re basic, but who’s to say she doesn’t look effortlessly chic still?
Nothing beats a little black dress as a closet staple. But lose the typical cotton fabrics and go with something more luxe, like velvet. Not only does Sandra’s smokin’ piece add a dose of mystery, its off-shoulder cut also gives off a touch of sauciness. Toughen the look up with a pair of black boots instead of your usual stilettos.
Fashioning a bra as a top is the trend du jour. Be as badass as Sandra and rock a simple bandeau piece (which flaunts her rock hard abs) with a pair of ripped denim jeans and keep your accessories to the bare minimum. If you’re shy, throw a blazer or a statement jacket over it.
An intentionally mismatched bikini can look pretty stylish and interesting. In fact, non-coordinating clothing is all the rage these days. Follow Sandra and pair two different separates together. She went with a military green top and black bottoms, but you can match mandarin orange with sunshine yellow too. Slip on a pair of aviators and you’re instantly beach-ready.
ALSO READ: WHAT ARE OVARIAN CYSTS, AND WHY DID SAM WILLOWS’ SANDRA RILEY TANG HAVE HERS REMOVED?