Avant Guard: POV of A Fashion Stylist with Deanni

The stylist knows best.

Avant Guard is a series that digs into a personality’s fashion hacks, dos and don’ts, red flags, and more. In this edition, Deanni shares her views on building personal styles, fashion hacks and layering tips that she picked up through her experiences as a fashion stylist. 

Dolla, Xone, Lunadira—these up-and-coming local talents are making a mark among younger audiences with works that scream “relatable”. Deanni is the fashion stylist behind these artists, lending them a helpful hand in building characters that best depict their respective music—a creative catalyst shaping the vision of these artists. 

But dressing others is not the only hat Deanni wears. Colourful and bold, she has a unique eye for layering—one that reminds us of the nostalgic Japanese street fashion from the noughties. Her distinctive personal style—and her perfectly winged liner—has garnered her a devoted following. 

Often seen with her twin sisters, Deanna—who have equally distinguishing styles—the fashion enthusiast is also a model and a garment maker behind the made-to-order label, Kuraiyosei. “My biggest achievement is making a name for myself by doing what I love. I enjoy expressing myself through my outfits and being recognised for doing that makes me happy,” Deanni gushes, stating that through fashion she was granted opportunities to meet and collaborate with creatives from all walks of life, from music to the art scene.

Confess a fashion crime that you have committed before

I’m guilty of buying clothes but never actually wearing them—always adding things to my wardrobe instead of making the most out of what I already have! It’s a cycle I’m trying to break, but I think I can get away with it as a stylist because it’s handy for me to have extra options. 

A fashion item you cannot leave the house without

My piercings and accessories—earrings, rings, arm bangles or necklaces. They are essential to my style and my personality; they are me.  

Three items that are on your fashion wish list right now

For now, my fashion wish list includes three items: a classic leather trench coat—I’d wear it to the mall; a pair of Dr Martens Anistone Hi buckle detailed boots; and a red vintage Balenciaga city bag. Each of these pieces would elevate my wardrobe and add a timeless touch to my outfits.

Your first luxury purchase

Technically, my first luxury purchase wasn’t something I bought for myself, it’s more like the first luxury item I own. The J’adore by Dior, a beautiful birthday gift from my parents. It holds a lot of sentimental value to me not just because the fragrance is exquisite, but also because every time I wear it, I’m reminded of their love and support.

A talent from the fashion industry you would like to work with

I would love to work with Nadia Lee Cohen, a photographer, and Chappell Roan! Roan’s bold approach to self-expression aligns perfectly with my vision. And of course, collaborating with the Olsen twins would be a dream! Their influence on fashion and their ability to blend classic elegance with a modern twist is something I admire immensely.

A fashion tip you’re gatekeeping right now. Spill.

I wouldn’t say this is a tip I’d gatekeep, but I love layering. I often wear a dress or a skirt over baggy pants, or just add a scarf. These little touches create a pleasure yet comfortable look. As a stylist, my tip is to always have safety pins with you! These lifesavers come in handy if you need a quick fix or restyling. I think it’s important to also not be afraid to style clothes the “wrong” way, like wearing a skirt as a top or a dress as a skirt.

What is your favourite fashion accessory?

Other than the silvers, my favourite fashion accessory is a scarf. I love the versatility of it and there are so many ways to style it. It can work as a headband, to tie it around the waist, or just simply drape it over my shoulders or my neck. It adds texture to any outfit.

A controversial fashion opinion you have

I don’t have a controversial fashion opinion for I believe everyone should wear whatever makes them happy. Fashion is all about personal expression, so if you feel good about what you’re wearing, that’s what truly matters. 

If you could only wear just one fashion brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?

For a local brand, it would be Anaabu, and as for an international name, I’d choose Vivienne Westwood. 

Your lazy day outfit

if I’m heading out, my lazy day outfit usually starts with a baby tee. Throw on an outerwear or a knit sweater that goes with a long skirt, and top it off with either a pair of platform boots or ballet flats. If I’m just lounging at home, I’ll opt for an oversized T-shirt with baggy pants. 

A trend that needs to die

A trend that definitely needs to die is polyester clothes. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they are also detrimental to the environment. I think it’s time for fashion to move towards adopting more sustainable and breathable fabrics that feel good to wear. 

A fashion red flag

A red flag I have is the obsession with micro trends. For me, putting on every single trend without thinking about their personal style can come off as a bit tacky. Trends are not necessarily bad but it’d be great to mix them with a touch of your own take.

What is your last fashion purchase?

I recently purchased an Anaabu skirt that also doubles as a dress! By now, you can tell I really love versatile pieces that allow me to be creative with the styling.

Your biggest purchase regret?

I don’t think I have any regretted purchases! (laughs) We only live once, so I’d like to embrace these choices I made and enjoy the journey. 

A song that will always get you in the mood to get ready

Recently, the song that always puts me in a mood is ‘Sexy to Someone’ by Clairo. It just makes me feel very good about myself even if I’m just getting ready to head to the grocery store. 

A fashion memory you’d want to erase

Frankly, I can’t think of any fashion memory I’d want to erase. Every awkward outfit made me who I am today. (laughs) They are all part of the fun! 

A fashion icon that you’ve always looked up to

I can’t pick just one! I’ve always admired the Olsen twins for their effortlessly chic approach and layering skills. Helena Bonham Carter too, inspires me with her bold and eclectic style, she is fearless with her fashion choices. Then of course, Vivienne Westwood has had a huge impact on my love for edgy and avant-garde designs. Plus, my family and friends have also played a big role in shaping my style. Each of them brings something unique to the table and this blend of influences inspires me every day!

Something from your wardrobe that you’d love to pass down

Gosh, I’d love to pass down everything from my wardrobe! If I had to pick, it would be my Anaabu pieces as they hold a special place in my heart. I would never let go of them. I want the future gen (my best friend’s kids) to have these pieces someday. It’d be amazing to see them enjoy the pieces I cherished and hopefully, they will be able to create memories that stayed with them wearing these pieces. 

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