Some know Nina Amin as a TV host, some have been following her since her Dewi Remaja days, and some might even know her as the model who fronts almost all ANAABU’s fashion campaigns—the indispensable character that complements the brand’s forte in storytelling with her distinctiveness. As a full-time model, Nina shared that her proudest achievement, for now, is scoring herself an opportunity to work with a well-known cosmetic brand in Indonesia and even chalked up billboard features.
Perhaps it’s from her experience as a model and a TV host, that Nina developed a sensible style neither too extravagant nor too mundane—she never shies away from adding vibrant colours to her look and it’s everything but superfluous. Her tip? Eyes on the detail. Socks, plain or colourful, are her style tips to enliven a look. But that being said, Nina is also a strong believer in conscious shopping, with the first step being to remove all the prejudices and labels on others’ fashion preferences. An outfit repeater? She is one, loud and proud.
Confess a fashion crime that you have committed before
I don’t think there is a “crime” that can be committed as fashion is where we are allowed
to always be experimental. Maybe at some point, we’d find our previous preferences questionable but we can’t ignore the fact that these styles were once deemed popular so instead of saying it was a crime, I believe fashion created memories. So when we look back, we relive the fun moments we once had.
A fashion item you cannot leave the house without
Any type of glasses—sunglasses or even reading glasses. Frames complete a look.
Three items that are on your fashion wish list right now
A bracelet from a brand I adore, a green slouchy sweater, and a pair of structured pants.
Your first luxury purchase
A well-made pair of black jeans from Carhartt.
A talent from the fashion industry you would like to work with
There are many great individuals I would love to work with. I would like to explore more with the local creatives because we have a very spectacular pool of talents here, so I’d welcome any opportunity.
A fashion tip you’re gatekeeping right now. Spill.
I wouldn’t call this a tip but my recommendation is to pair white or colourful socks with any sort of footwear whether sneakers, loafers, slip-ons or even Crocs. I think it’s a cute touch to a look.
What is your favourite fashion accessory?
Ear cuffs! They are the definition of small but always make a statement.
A trend that needs to die
Overconsumption. Try creating a capsule wardrobe instead. Buy less clothes and purchase things that you actually love. Pick pieces that you know you will and can wear for a long time. This is also a process that will contribute to cultivating our own authentic style. It’s never about the quantity, but all about the quality.
A fashion red flag
Making “outfit repeater” an issue. Not sure if this is a universal experience but there were times when people would come up to me and ask, “Oh, didn’t you wear that last week?” And yes, I did and I think that is okay. A piece of clothing is supposed to be worn multiple times, most probably until it’s worn out. Plus, there’s a washing machine for a reason so, there is no need to worry if someone is wearing the same outfit.
A controversial fashion opinion you have
I don’t fancy it when people criticise others for their styles. I don’t understand the need to comment on others for not wearing something over-the-top or luxurious and label someone as “basic” if they chose to wear something not in vogue.
I believe not everyone has the time and privilege to go through style transformations all the time. Fashion trends are always changing so as long as one feels comfortable and confident in what they are wearing, then by all means, wear it. Fashion is for everyone and everyone should be celebrated.
If you could only wear just one fashion brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I’d always go for the simple, effortless or minimal street style, so if I were to create my dream wardrobe, it would be a mix of COS, Carhartt, Acne Studios, Human Made, Jil Sander, Ralph Lauren, as well as my favourite go-to local brand, ANAABU.
Your lazy day outfit
A pair of blue or black jeans, a white tee and a sweater, paired with white socks and my good ol’ Crocs.
What was your last fashion purchase?
I think it was a pair of jorts and a blazer that I thrifted a month ago.
Your biggest purchase regret
Bought a pair of loafers that were not my size. But because I liked it so much, I believed that I could squeeze into it and even convinced myself that beauty is pain. Truth is, I still haven’t worn it to this day.
A song that will always get you in the mood to get ready
I don’t listen to music when I get ready. It’s either getting ready in silence or I’ll watch crime documentaries sometimes some podcasts on Youtube.
A fashion memory you’d want to erase
Nothing really. I love all the awkward and funny moments, especially those purple oval glasses that I had during my primary school years.
A fashion icon that you’ve always looked up to
Alexa Chung, a British fashion icon. Scha Alyahya, Malaysian fashion royalty. I’ve always loved their personality as well as how they have fun with fashion.
Something from your wardrobe that you’d love to pass down
I think it would be everything that I have in my wardrobe, even all of my accessories—some of which were passed down from my mom, so it would be great to see it being worn for generations to come.
A thing that I’d love to pass down is something that is yet to exist. (laughs) As cliche as it might sound, I would love to pass down my wedding dress. It would be interesting to see how it will be used and what it will be for—there’s something so sentimental and beautiful about this.
READ MORE
Avant Guard: Sustainable Fashion with Seri Mizani
Fashion City Guide: ANAABU Embraces Heritage Through Fashion and Its Retail Spaces