Those familiar with the local fashion scene will spot Alia immediately, especially through her work as a model with designers such as SHALS, MSYD, and demi-fine jewellery brand MYJN, just to name a few. As a model, Alia has a career commonly perceived as the canvas, which she has aced, for local designers and brands to paint their visions and showcase their creations. And when she is off the clock, she never shies away from showing her personality through her approach to fashion. It’s less like the off-duty minimal looks models are often associated with, but more of expressive pieces that speak to her. With French fashion figure Michèle Lamy and Erykah Badu—the winner of CFDA’s 2024 Fashion Icon Award—pinned on her style inspiration board, it’s no wonder Alia radiates confidence and brings individuality to the local fashion space.
But like many of us, finding a voice through fashion wasn’t something that came naturally, and even if it did, it often changes as we change. On that note, the fashion model admitted she was once a victim of trends before finding a comfortable spot for herself in the malaise where identity building and fashion intersect. Consuming ultra-fast fashion—something she now loathes—was a phase she went through, but fortunately has moved on. There’s a saying that goes models are a barometer of fashion, but in Alia’s case, being a model with a fashion design background makes her a trendsetter instead. Thrifting, vintage pieces, and upcycling are some of the terms in her fashion glossary. Buyer’s remorse, for Alia, is a tale unheard of.
Confess a fashion crime that you have committed before
When I was wearing what was “trendy” because I had yet to find my style, that felt like a crime to me.
A fashion item you cannot leave the house without
I cannot leave the house without my bedazzled Guess watch that my mom got me as a birthday present.
Three items that are on your fashion wish list right now
The classic Timberlands—I’ve always wanted a pair, Maison Margiela’s Tabi Bianchetto Slingback Shoes and the Balenciaga Le City Leather Tote.
Your first luxury purchase
An archival Kenzo dress that I bought from my friend Razeq Jeffrey, who is also an archivist.
A talent from the fashion industry you would like to work with
I like to dream big, so I’d say Hugo Comte, an established photographer, and designer Mowalola—I’m obsessed with their boundary-breaking spirit. I also want to work with photographer Weeyang, and also Tham or Mairak, both incredible stylists in the local scene.
A fashion tip you’re gatekeeping right now. Spill.
To find the best pieces of clothing, just go to the most raggedy thrift store in your hood.
What is your favourite fashion accessory?
My big silver bangle I found in Publika; it goes with every outfit.
A trend that needs to die
The Coquette trend and Y2K trend need to go—putting ribbons on literally everything? I don’t get it.
A fashion red flag
Wearing straight-cut ripped jeans, especially those knee-ripped pairs.
A controversial fashion opinion you have
Wearing designer pieces does not make one fashionable.
If you could wear only one fashion brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I feel like Balenciaga really speaks to me, so that’s what I’d wear for the rest of my life.
Your lazy day outfit
On my lazy day, I will just put on any shorts or jorts, pair them with a baggy shirt and my thrifted Uggs.
What is your last fashion purchase?
I bought a pair of XXL Levi’s baggy jeans recently.
Your biggest regret purchase
I have no regrets. Fortunately, with a fashion design background, I’d just upcycle any pieces that I no longer like or failed to rationalise the purchase.
A song that will always get you in the mood to get ready
Honestly, Xxplosive by Dr Dre (1999). It’s such a classic number that I know all the lyrics to.
A fashion memory you’d want to erase
I had my Shein phase, and I want to erase that.
A fashion icon that you’ve always looked up to
I really look up to Michelle Lamy and Erykah Badu because their approach to fashion is so personalised. That speaks about their individuality well. In the local scene, Cyii Cheng stood out to me because everything she puts on is just effortlessly her; it hits differently.
Something from your wardrobe that you’d love to pass down
A gorgeous black fur coat that I thrifted.
READ MORE
Avant Guard: Sustainable Fashion with Seri Mizani
Avant Guard: Nina Amin on How Fashion Should Be For Everyone