Cover They may have different styles, but both Jamie and Calista know how to dress to impress. The mother and daughter tell us how they inspire each other’s outfits. (Photo: Calista Cuaca)
They may have different styles, but both Jamie and Calista know how to dress to impress. The mother and daughter tell us how they inspire each other’s outfits. (Photo: Calista Cuaca)
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When it comes to getting dressed, some mothers do know best. In honour of Mother’s Day 2023, we feature some fashionable stars in Singapore who agree with that sentiment and find out what style lessons their mums have taught them
Can a love for luxury be inherited? In the case of Calista Cuaca, the flame-haired fashionista and daughter of Jamie Chua, we certainly think so. Dior, Prada and Saint Laurent are just some of the fashion brands that fill Calista’s closet, as the outfits that she shares on her Instagram profile (@xcalikins) suggest. And it’s no secret what kind of extravagances one can find in Jamie’s wardrobe.
Still, Calista’s style is imbued with a lot more attitude than her mother’s playfully feminine outfits. Mirroring the eclectic tastes of her generation, the 24-year-old rocks a grungy pair of jeans just as well as a miniskirt, and often passes over high heels for sneakers or combat boots.
It’s no wonder that Jamie and Calista make such a striking pair when they hit the town and attend parties and society events together. Instead of twinning in matching outfits, the mother-daughter duo prefer to play off their different styles, complementing each other nicely.
Here, Jamie and Calista tell us more about how they inspire each other’s outfits, and what fashion item that they really had to have from each other’s closets.
In case you missed it: Skincare Secrets: Calista Cuaca reveals her must-have beauty products to maintain good skin
Above Calista Cuaca and Jamie Chua
Calista Cuaca and Jamie Chua
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Calista, how would you describe your style?
Calista Cuaca: I don't think I have a specific style, I love trying out new looks but I always wear whatever makes me confident. I guess you can say my sense of style is confidence.
When did you first start exploring your style?
Calista: Since I was a young girl, my mum has always dressed me up in pretty frilly dresses, but I didn’t feel like myself in them. That was when I felt the need to venture out to find my own style and taste in fashion.
Do you have a fond fashion memory of your mother from your childhood?
Calista: My mum is a huge fan of bubble skirts, and I remember her always dressing me in said pieces to match with her when we went out for dinners. Although I can’t say that they’re also my favourite, I always felt beautiful and powerful as we held hands and walked together like an iconic duo.
How would you describe your mother’s style?
Calista: She reminds me of a butterfly, fluttering around with strong feminine energy and looking gorgeous in whatever patterns, colours and silhouettes she chooses.
What style advice has your mother given you that has stuck with you?
Calista: My mum has always preached that you wear the clothes, and not the other way around. Whatever outfit you’re going to adorn yourself with, wear it with utmost confidence and poise.
Above Jamie Chua and Calista Cuaca
Jamie Chua and Calista Cuaca
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When you go to events with your mother, do you two sometimes try to match your outfits or plan them together?
Calista: We always ask each other what we’re thinking of wearing to the event, just so our outfits can complement each other and we look like a cute duo, but in our own personal styles.
What is your favourite style item that your mother has bought for you?
Calista: My favourite item from my mum is my custom Yuli Jewellery pavé diamond choker, gifted to me for my birthday. She knew that I had been looking for a diamond choker for a while and surprised me with one. I love how I can easily match it with any outfit, be it for a glammed-up event or even a casual lunch out.
What is something that you want from your mother’s closet?
Calista: Although it’s not really my usual style, I can appreciate the beauty of her collection of pretty summer dresses from Zimmerman, Self Portrait, Dolce & Gabbana and countless others brands. I do still love to bask in fresh, frilly and feminine vibes at times. But I’d pair my summer dress with some combat boots, just to keep a touch of myself in there.
Jamie, how has Calista inspired your style?
Jamie Chua: Calista inspired me to introduce more activewear in my daily life. And since I’ve moved to the island, I’ve been living in activewear.
What is something that you want from Calista’s closet?
Jamie: I’ve “stolen” a Brunello Cucinelli blazer from her and it’s now in my wardrobe.
Credits
Images: Calista Cuaca
Pameyla Cambe is the Assistant Digital Editor of Tatler Singapore. She handles the Fashion section of the website, where she reports on trends, the hottest fashion launches and what your favourite Asian celebrities are wearing.
