Style Watch: Television personality Sarah Lian lets her outfits do the talking

As a celebrity, she is more exacting than most others about achieving that fine balance between appearing effortless and beautifully polished. Photo: Sarah Lian

There is more to clothes than just being about vanity. Sarah Lian believes it can also work to complement a personality. She sees fashion as a reflection on society and the times, as well.

The 38-year-old Malaysian puts a lot of thought into choosing her outfits – whether to do with something as simple as accessorising, or more serious matters like making a sustainable fashion choice.

Born in Taiping, Perak, but having grown up in Canada, Lian has been active in film, television and theatre. She is frequently seen attending (or hosting) events as a celebrity within the local scene here.

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As for her aesthetic, it seems that she favours anything that can help her stand out.

From bold yet chic designs to comfy two-piece ensembles and exquisite red carpet dresses, Lian certainly knows how to rock a look. Perhaps it is more about her confidence, than anything else.

While Lian enjoys keeping up with trends, she does not think that they define someone’s style. According to her, fashion should not be a “make or break” factor in judging a person.

Curating a good OOTD (outfit of the day) is, after all, in the details, and Lian is more exacting than most others about achieving that fine balance between appearing effortless and beautifully polished.

What’s your take on fashion? How do you see it influencing life in general?

Fashion plays a huge role in my life. Besides studying fashion in university, I believe it’s an extension of one’s personality. Fashion has always been a social commentary on society and the world we live in, and for me that rings true. As most of us were at home (during the pandemic), clothing like loungewear or fun “at-home” styles were more noticeable and prevalent. It also showed how there wasn’t much room for pretence with everyone having nowhere to go, we could all show up more authentically. Also with sustainability in the forefront of everyone’s mind, I try to be a bit more conscious when it comes to purchasing clothing. If I am purchasing fast fashion, I make sure I have pieces that will last and to be honest, my favourite pieces have longevity.

What’s a typical Sarah Lian outfit like?

I’d probably describe my personal style as effortless, chic with a hint of dare. I like taking risks while sticking to simple silhouettes that accentuate curves on a woman’s body. A structured dress with a cutout or a design detail along with a pair of strappy sandals would probably be a quintessential Sarah Lian look.

If someone asks you for fashion advice, what would your answer be?

Comfort is key. If you don’t feel comfortable in your own skin, anything you wear, will look like you’re drowning. Also knowing your body type and finding ways to balance your look would be another aspect of dressing well, and when all fails, stick to basics. Don’t over complicate it!4. Do you believe that everyone can be fashionable?

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I think everyone can be fashionable with the amount of exposure and time they choose to spend on fashion. If you’re up to date with the trends and the new collections or the spirit of each season, you get to make better and more informed decisions on what you like and what you don’t like. While that being said, you can still be fashionable if you stick to the basics, it’s totally up to your interpretation.

What are your style essentials?

A pair of comfy heels, rings or bracelets to add a little more detail to the outfit, and also a great lipstick.