My Wardrobe

Look into model manager Parveen Hassanbhai's wardrobe

That is Ms Parveen Hassanbhai's best style advice. The model manager wears a lot of black and white, but likes bright accessories

Model manager Parveen Hassanbhai became interested in fashion when her cousin gave her a pair of pants from Comme des Garcons.
Model manager Parveen Hassanbhai became interested in fashion when her cousin gave her a pair of pants from Comme des Garcons. PHOTOS: DIOS VINCOY JR FOR THE STRAITS TIMES
PHOTOS: DIOS VINCOY JR FOR THE STRAITS TIMES

Ms Parveen Hassanbhai, 28, single, model manager at modelling agency Ave Management

How would you describe your style?

Androgynous and classic.

When did your interest in fashion start?

When I was introduced to the crazy world of Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo when I was 18. My cousin bought me my first piece of clothing - a pair of pants - from the Comme des Garcons store on my birthday.

Who are your favourite designers or your go-to brands?

Comme des Garcons for its amazing and out-of-the-world pieces, although it has clean and classic pieces too. Also, home-grown womenswear brands Exhibit for its classic staples and In Good Company because I love its designs and bold necklaces.

Who are your style icons?

Rei Kawakubo, who is 74 and whom I want to dress like when I am at her age, and British model Alexa Chung because she has this cool attitude whether she dresses up or down.

What are the favourite pieces in your wardrobe?

My Comme des Garcons leather jacket (photo 1) because it is a must-have.

My Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag (photo 2) because I like the colours and I knew I could not get it here. I bought this at a department store in South Korea.

I also love my Adidas x Yohji Yamamoto Y-3 sneakers (photo 3) - one cannot go wrong with sneakers and I had to buy them in both black and white - and my Comme des Garcons dress (photo 4) because it is reversible.

Another favourite piece is a wooden block-and-rope necklace (photo 5) from a local designer whose name I cannot remember. I knew I had to get it as soon as I saw it. I wear a lot of black and white, but I like my accessories colourful.

What are your weaknesses when it comes to shopping?

Once I have my eye on something - whether it is something I do not have in my wardrobe or whether I like the cut and style of the outfit - I need to have it immediately.

What is your favourite splurge piece?

My Comme des Garcons jacket (photo 6) in houndstooth print with bows on the sleeves. It was on sale and cost about $1,200 to $1,500 with a pair of matching pants.

Is there a purchase you have regretted?

No, I am very careful when I buy something.

What is your most recent fashion purchase?

My Gucci Ghost shoulder bag (photo 7) that I bought in September. I love the graffiti print, but I cannot remember how much it costs.

What is the best shopping or style advice you live by?

Always be comfortable in your own skin.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on November 03, 2016, with the headline Look into model manager Parveen Hassanbhai's wardrobe. Subscribe