To say that Linda Hao’s style is out there would be an understatement. With a penchant for loud colours, outrageous prints, and candy-coloured hair, she’s like a character straight out of a manga comic – a bold and ballsy one, at that. Coupled with the fact that she’s a designer of her own fashion label, Yesah, and a DJ, here’s one style star with serious street cred.
How would you describe your style?
I always feel so pressured whenever I’m asked this question! I think that my look is pretty versatile. I used to be a stylist so even when I’m dressing myself, I really style my look. It really depends on my mood or the occasion – I give myself a character and dress accordingly. For example, today I’m feeling a street style/Harajuku vibe (Ed’s note: Linda was rocking a full-length denim jumpsuit, lace-up platform boots, serious bling, and green hair) but on other days, I may go for a full-on Audrey Hepburn look. I dress for myself and for no one else.
That’s the mark of someone who truly loves fashion, but also has style!
Well, that’s because fashion is a lifestyle – it’s not just about the clothes. To me, it’s an everyday affair.
How did you get started in fashion?
I’ve been influenced by my family’s business from a very young age. My parents ran a bridal costume business so I grew up in a world filled with beautiful gowns and photo shoots. When I was growing up, I didn’t even have to think about what I wanted to do – going into fashion just happened naturally. I studied fashion design at Temasek Polytechnic and went on to starting my online label, Yesah.
Who’s your style icon?
One of them is Mademoiselle Yulia, a DJ and accessories designer from Japan. When I was younger, I really looked up to her because she is such a trailblazer – she was one of the first female DJs I’ve seen who melded fashion and music together in such a fresh and effortless way.
You’ve got over 27,000 followers on Instagram, so clearly many look up to you as their style icon! Is there pressure that comes with this?
When I first joined Instagram, it was just a fun hobby where I could document my outfits and play around with the different filters. I have no idea how I gained so many followers in a short period of time. But I don’t feel any pressure – just a little annoyed because nowadays, many are using and abusing Instagram for their own personal fame (I won’t name any names!) and I don’t want to be associated with that.
Between fashion and music, which is your higher love?
I’ve always loved fashion but running a business is a whole other game. It’s about numbers and sometimes that can kill the passion. Between the two, I’d pick music because it’s my constant companion. I can’t live without it.
Speaking of music, what’s on your playlist right now?
I’m currently into a new genre called ‘trap hop’, which is a chilled, alternative type of hip-hop, and artists like Banks and Mr. Carmack.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Films always inspire me. I love watching films and studying how the styling matches with the setting and time period. For example, the film ‘Her’ inspired my next collection on Yesah – I was really intrigued by how Spike Jonze played with the concept of futurism without making it a typical sci-fi flick. So the concept of my new collection will be ‘retro-futurism’ where I fuse street style with futuristic elements without making it look too costume-y.
Apart from the release of your upcoming collection, what’s next for you?
I’ll be showcasing my collection at Digital Fashion Week in November – so look out for that!
What’s in your black book of places to go and shop in Singapore?
I’m actually quite a homebody and my latest hobby is cooking at home – so I don’t really have much to recommend! But I love having brunch and trying out new cafés around Singapore – my favourite is Common Man Coffee Roasters. As for shopping, I LOVE Topshop and NastyGal.com.
Thanks Linda!