Style Watch: Malaysian image coach Ong Ming Yen believes fashion is empowering


This image coach and content creator loves classic, dramatic and sporty looks. Photo: Ong Ming Yen

Digital content creator and image coach Ong Ming Yen makes it her aim every day to dress appropriately for every occasion.

Her aim in her line of work, which ranges from corporate image training to individual styling and personal shopping, is to encourage people to embrace and express their own unique style.

“As an image coach in the fashion and beauty industry, I strive to empower individuals to express their unique style with confidence and authenticity,” says Ong, who is known by the moniker “Stilettoes Diva” on social media.

She describes her personal style as being a mix of three specific looks – classic, dramatic and sporty – as her wardrobe includes many pieces relevant to these styles on repeat.

What is your favourite go-to look?

I am meticulous with my OOTD (outfit of the day) so I will make sure my outfit is tidy enough to step out my front door. When it comes to work, I love a good non-wrinkled little black dress and sometimes I’ll add on a blazer. I think a blazer is a must-have if one is in the corporate world.

On casual days, my favourite go-to look is sporty and relaxed. A pair of cargo pants and a collared shirt, or just with a tee.

Read more: Style Watch: Radio announcer and TV host Isha Norsham rocks a variety of looks

What are your three must-have style/beauty items?

It really depends on what I want people to focus on me that day. If I want them to look at my nice, hydrated, porcelain skin, then a good cushion foundation is a must-have for me.

Talking a lot on a particular day will mean that I want them to see my lips first so a red lipstick is a must-have. And I can also use it to dab on my cheeks as a blusher.

Last but not least, a nice, clean pair of pointed-toe pumps. Either in black or nude, it doesn’t matter because it can make my legs look longer and it can be worn for so many occasions.

What trend would you most like to see disappear?

I cringe over visible underwear. Unless you’re modelling for the brand or doing a photo shoot, one can keep the brand of undies she or he is wearing to herself or himself.

Who would you consider a style icon and why?

Twiggy as I love her retro style, Audrey Hepburn as her style is classic – to date, the black dress is still a must-have in the wardrobe, those pearls are great accessories and the bun is still a great hairstyle to wear for work or leisure.

Finally, Grace Kelly. Just like her name, she is graceful and elegant. I like her timelessness and understated style. Her fashion choices have inspired many based on her classic appeal.

Read more: Style Watch: Malaysian singer Ernie Zakri favours a modest yet chic look

What are three key pieces everyone should have in their wardrobe?

These are a few of my favourite things: LBD (little black dress) which every woman must have because it’s the best item of clothing to layer.

A pair of slingback, pointed-toe shoes, a reliable and good quality handbag that will last years and that you can bring it out for work and the weekend, and a well-tailored pair of pants that suit your body shape.

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