I Want Her Style : Georgina Foo on how it's ok to repeat your outfits

What does personal style mean to you? To many, it’s more than just the clothes off their backs — it’s the freedom to express who they are on the inside before even saying a word. While we all have a personal sense of style, no two individuals are exactly the same when it comes to the way they dress. In this column I Want Her Style, we speak to the stylish individuals of Singapore, and find out what makes their minds tick when it comes to fashion, and the people who inspire them.

Growing up, Georgina Foo had already developed a keen eye and appreciation for architecture and design. The 29-year-old, who is in the midst of obtaining her accreditation as an architect, recalls her younger days admiring beautiful architectural facades and envisioning how the space was conceptualised and designed.

“It’s almost like coming full circle, to be able to design interiors that I’ve always daydreamed about when I was younger,” she muses, adding that nothing gives her more joy and satisfaction than being able to design someone’s dream home.

Deeply influenced by the modernist movement in architecture – where design saw a shift from the ornamental and decorative towards a streamlined, utilitarian aesthetic – Georgina is fascinated by the modernist movement, which has certainly influenced her personal style.

She says: “My aesthetic is pretty streamlined in terms of palette and silhouettes, but I do enjoy unexpected details, like calibrated vents in the back of an unassuming linen dress, and the occasional pop of colour.”

She confesses that she has predominantly three key colours in her wardrobe: black, white and neutrals. And unlike some women who do not subscribe to repeating their clothes, she is actually an advocate for doing just that. “There are definitely certain pieces in my wardrobe that are worn (and loved) to death. I think that’s the perfect example of what a timeless wardrobe should be.”

Here, Georgina shares her relationship with fashion and design.

I have an appreciation for…

“Unexpected and delightful detailing. As the German-American architect Mies van der Rohe once said, ‘God is in the details’.”

Fashion and design…

“Is all about self-expression. Fashion is arguably the most intuitive form of design, and I love the idea that it is accessible to everyone.”

I make the best of my outfit…

“With a streamlined palette. You can never go wrong with mixing and matching pieces.”

On a day-to-day basis…

“I love a powerful sleek black dress. If I have to run for a site visit, I prefer high-waisted trousers with a structured top. I’m a big believer that the way you dress projects the first and lasting impression of yourself.”

Most underrated designers out there…

“For fashion, Le 17 Septembre and Subtle Studios. In terms of design, I’ve been following the works of KL-based interior design studio Wunderwall, and I think it has been crafting fantastic works in recent years.”

When purchasing a new outfit or accessory…

“I always make sure it has a timeless appeal. Years down the road, I would like to have that same feeling of excitement as I did on the first day that I acquired it.”

Having fun with my wardrobe choices means…

“Taking my shoes out for a walk. I have a collection of footwear made up of interesting architectural and sculptural details.”

Georgina’s musings on inspirational female icons in fashion and design: