Style Watch: Malaysian model Danny Woo dresses with confidence

He was formerly a pastry chef working in a five-star hotel, but somehow life took him on a different path. Photo: Instagram/Danny Woo

He was formerly a pastry chef working in a five-star hotel, but somehow life took him on a different path.

Danny Woo, 30, is now not only a model, but runs his own modelling agency. This is despite him having completed a baking and culinary course back in his university days.

“It was after a concert. I was walking back to my car with friends, and someone came up to me to pass me a name card, saying that I’ve the potential to be a model,” he relates, about his experience of being scouted back in 2014.

Woo says that led him to launching his own company because he wanted to help others get into the business.

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“Throughout the years in the modelling industry, I noticed there are a lot people in Malaysia who have the potential to become a model. However, they lack the guidance. I thought it was such a waste.”

Regarding fashion, Woo thinks that versatility is important.

He says that everyone needs to learn how to dress according to the occasion. For him, accessorising is also key in jazzing up a look.

His personal style? It would probably be best described as street chic, with a dash of sartorial flair.

How would you describe your personal style in terms of dressing? Do you go for a more fashionable look, or do you prefer a casual aesthetic?

Well, it really depends. If I’m going for an event, I’ll definitely pick a more fashionable look. For just normal days, then I’ll opt for something casual – a relaxed vibe that can work with my style.

What are some of your favourite designers and why? Both on the local front and internationally?

For local fashion, it would be Micheal Ooi from Penang. I have known Micheal for a long time and his designs are always very authentic. Looking to the international scene, I have my eye on Tommy Hilfiger. I think the brand’s offerings have a more lifestyle feel to them, and the aesthetic suits me.

As a guy, do you find it difficult shopping for clothes? Do you think menswear is more limited in choices compared to womenswear?

I can’t speak for guys from other countries, but I actually do find it difficult to shop for clothes. I would say that in Malaysia, there’s not much choice in terms or colours and style. Of course, this is just my personal experience. Yes, when compared to womenswear, Malaysian men have a more limited choice and menswear here is lacking.

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What are some of the fashion essentials that guys should consider?

Well, a pair of sneakers do go well with lots of things. It’s a versatile fashion accessory. But apart from that, just either a simple nice watch, necklace or bracelet can work wonders to make you look nice and complete your outfit.

Photo: Instagram/Danny Woo

What are some of the style advice you can give to men regarding looking their best? Say, a guy who aspires to become a fashion model.

I think that a lot people misunderstand the idea of being stylish. It is not necessarily that you have to wear branded items to look good. I don’t. Having good style is more than that. I feel it depends on how you style yourself. It is also about how confident you feel when you step out of the house.