My Style: Lisa Nguyen
Portrait: Neil Francis Dawson — Courtesy of Lisa Nguyen
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Some combinations don't make sense in our minds...however, on the right person who rocks it with true style and confidence, it can be pleasantly surprising.
Please describe your style in three words.
Clean, chic, and cool.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not understanding your body, and forgetting to look in the mirror.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes I do, because some people are inspiring and habitually do the right thing.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Leather, all varying types of leather. It looks and feels amazing on the body.
Which city has the best dressed women?
New York, Paris, London and Tokyo; all in differing ways.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I am in the middle, between conservative and bold.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Feel comfortable and appropriate for the occasion.
Celebrities and style…
Is something that creates a job for me as a stylist!
Name one garment/accessory you can never get enough of.
A fabulous handbag.
A woman should always look like…
She is empowered.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Over the years I worked with some great mentors who have influenced my style and understanding of fashion; notably legendary stylist Patti Wilson, fashion designer Hannah Marshall, and creative director Jean Ferraud.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
The mood and my clothing are usually aligned, so it quite simply depends on being weather appropriate.
What is your biggest regret?
Having squandered time and energy on frivolous things that deceivingly appeared important at the time. "Should've, could've, would've...", such is life!
The three essential things a woman should know about style are…
Know your body, know your fabrics, and know your sense of occasion.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I ask myself, "will I still like this in a few seasons time?" I like to choose pieces that have a timeless quality.
We will never see you wearing…
Hot pants. Oh, I wouldn't dare.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
For a while now I have been an avid supporter of both Chromat and Zana Bayne. I love their aesthetics and the way they have blurred the lines between accessories and clothing. It has been incredible to witness their progression and growth from a stylist's perspective.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
My mother, particularly circa 1970s in Vietnam. She was a diamond in the rough.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her eyes.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I love my Junya Watanabe trousers with asymmetric draped frill, my Louis Vuitton backless tuxedo vest, and my Ann Demeulemeester leather open toe boots.
The one image that defined your approach to style…
I could not name one, but I can say numerous Richard Avedon and Tim Walker images.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is…
Her undergarments; no straps showing, no crazy colours, and no VPL (visible panty line).
Is comfort an enemy of style?
The comfort of being on the move and not slipping/breaking an ankle is acceptable; the comfort of pyjama attire out in public is not so much.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Youngjun Koo.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Be yourself.
