MY WARDROBE

You can never be overdressed

Shoe shop owner Jayne Tham believes she has to look her best all the time. By Leong Kay Ean

Converse sneakers
Ms Jayne Tham goes for a simple and fuss-free style in her dressing. PHOTOS: JAYNE THAM

Q & A

JAYNE THAM, 26 , BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE FOR SHOE STORES P.V.S. AND LEFT FOOT. MARRIED TO DJ VERNON ANTHONISZ, 43. THEY HAVE NO CHILDREN

How would you describe your sense of style?

I would say I'm pretty minimal. I like to keep things simple and fuss-free. When I'm in the mood, I tend to accessorise a little more than usual to be a little edgy.

What are your go-to brands?

Swedish fashion label Acne is one of my favourite brands because its designs are always on point and will always be a classic. For everyday looks, I look to high street brand Zara.

I'm not too brand conscious: As long as the style and size fit (and the price tag, of course), I'm getting it.

Do you admire any style icons?

My favourite is fashion blogger Jayne Min (@stopitrightnow). She has these cool girl vibes that she exudes effortlessly. I love her simple and laidback style.

What are your three favourite pieces in your wardrobe?

My Salvatore Ferragamo Camera Bag (photo 1), my Zara gingham culottes (photo 2) and my ultra comfortable Converse sneakers (photo 3).

I love the bag because it has a squarish shape and it is slightly dainty without being too girly. It is unlike anything that I have and it is youthful, very different from what is usually sold by Ferragamo.

The culottes are very airy and comfortable and because of their print, they're one of my basics. But they are not too plain. They give off a vibe reminiscent of Japanese label Comme Des Garcons, which I love.

Lastly, my Converse sneakers are one of my top favourites because they are very comfortable.

What is your weakness when it comes to shopping?

Cute, girly bags. They are totally not my style and I doubt I would ever carry them, but I do have my girly days. They are more of a collectible for me and I get satisfaction looking at them on my shelf.

What is your favourite splurge piece?

It would have to be my Proenza Schouler PS11 mini (photo 4). I have been wanting to get it for the longest time and I finally got it earlier this year. It is the best.

Is there a purchase you have regretted?

No. I make my purchase decisions pretty carefully, at least that's what I think. I'm not too sure if my husband agrees with that, though.

What was your most recent fashion purchase?

It would have to be my vintage Chanel bag (photo 5) from Japan. I got it from a vintage store in Tokyo, which I had been following on Instagram. When I last visited Tokyo, I paid the shop a visit. There were so many Chanel bags on sale. It would have been a pity to go home empty-handed. This one cost me $1,700.

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

"You can never be overdressed or overeducated" - this is a quote from Irish playwright Oscar Wilde. Always look your best. On days you want to take it easy, you might just bump into your foe, or even worse, your ex-boyfriend.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 24, 2015, with the headline You can never be overdressed. Subscribe