If there’s one movie that epitomised fashion from the ’90s, it would have to be Clueless, starring Alicia Silverstone as the protagonist Cher Horowitz, a beautiful, rich but uptight high school student who gets a makeover after befriending a new schoolmate. Clueless not only represented the height of fashion in the ’90s, but it also transformed the way many teens around the world dressed back then.
Twenty-six years after its release, the influence of this rom-com continues to extend itself across the runways. Styles from that era can be seen across the major fashion houses, right down to even the way fashion images are currently being curated.
A self-professed fan of Clueless, Iman Fandi loves the idea of experimenting with new styles by throwing different items together. “It felt like I was at a playground during the shoot and I loved how the various elements came together.”
The other films that rank high when it comes to influencing Iman’s sense of style are Wild Child as well as the animated series Winx Club and Monster High. “The cast in Wild Child wore plenty of colours and their outfits were layered in the most interesting ways, which got me to like the idea of excess even more. As for Winx Club and Monster High, I just loved everything about them, especially seeing the style of each character evolve through the entire series. I always wished that I could have their wardrobe and their make-up.
“Looking back, Chanel’s spring/summer 1994 collection, where they had those mini pastel cropped sweaters, high-waisted skirts and chunky jewellery, was my absolute favourite,” exclaims Iman. “And what I am wearing today feels like an edgier version of it, which I really like. Well, who knows? This could be my look for my up-and-coming album?” the model-singer-songwriter says as she dances to a track from Doja Cat during a light change.
Citing her mother (former top model Wendy Jacobs), magazines and Instagram as her other sources of fashion inspiration, Iman is hungry to experiment. “After today’s shoot, I would like to introduce a bit of dazzle or a statement something into my wardrobe. The idea of taking a casual outfit and pushing it a couple of notches up by adding a corset or a belt bag is definitely what I see myself wearing more of.”
Augmented reality experience
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Photography Darren Gabriel Leow
Styling Desmond Lim
Words Zhuan Lee
Hair and makeup Kat Zhang using Kevin Murphy and Chanel Beauty
Photographer’s assistant Melvin Leong
Fashion assistant Khad Normani
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