Cover Zeena Tan reveals what her mum Linda Soo-Tan taught her to be the most important accessory to wear, and what Gen Z trend she has helped her mum to try. (Photo: Zeena Tan)
Zeena Tan reveals what her mum Linda Soo-Tan taught her to be the most important accessory to wear, and what Gen Z trend she has helped her mum to try. (Photo: Zeena Tan)
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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
It’s no accident that Zeena Tan is one of the most stylish corporate lawyers around. She has grown up watching her mother, Linda Soo-Tan, a fundraising veteran, get all dressed up for all sorts of galas and parties. That includes events for the Ikebana International Singapore Chapter 135, which Linda helms as vice-president, as well as our very own Tatler Ball.
“I love asking my mum for style advice,” Zeena tells Tatler Singapore. “There is no one’s opinion on fashion that I value more.” Indeed, she is in good hands: Linda, with her penchant for glamorous, floor-length gowns in bold colours and prints, is often among the best-dressed guest at any soirée.
Zeena can also count herself lucky that her mother’s wardrobe is also such a treasure trove. “My closet is bigger than hers so she’s welcome to raid mine!” says Linda. What does her daughter have her eye on at the moment? As it turns out, a Jimmy Choo bucket bag covered in crystals—an accessory that reveals that she has also inherited her mum’s appreciation for sparkle.
Below, we find out what Linda has taught Zeena to be the most important accessory for anyone to have, and what is the Gen Z trend that Zeena has encouraged her mum to try.
Read more: Why Elizabeth Heah and Caroline Low-Heah love planning their outfits together
Above Zeena Tan and Linda Soo-Tan (Photo: Zeena Tan)
Zeena Tan and Linda Soo-Tan (Photo: Zeena Tan)
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Zeena, how would you describe your style?
Zeena: Relaxed and colourful. I love a good print.
When did you first start exploring your style?
Zeena: I began exploring my style as a teenager in junior college. I definitely had many fashion misses along the way!
Do you have a fond fashion memory of your mother from your childhood?
Zeena: Watching my mum get glammed up for the Tatler Ball!
How would you describe your mother’s style?
Zeena: Her style is vibrant and classy.
What style advice has your mother given you that has stuck with you?
Zeena: That there should be comfort in style and the most important accessory is always a smile.
Above Linda Soo-Tan and Zeena Tan at the Tatler Ball 2022
Linda Soo-Tan and Zeena Tan at the Tatler Ball 2022
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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?
Zeena: We definitely discuss what we’re thinking of wearing ahead of time, but we don’t actively plan to match each other. I love asking my mum for style advice and there is no one’s opinion on fashion that I value more.
What is your favourite style item that your mother has bought for you?
Zeena: A pink Loro Piana cashmere shawl that I always bring with me when travelling in winter. It’s soft and warm and provides the perfect pop of colour.
What is something that you want from your mother’s closet?
Zeena: I would love to borrow her Jimmy Choo crystal bucket bag—a fun accessory for any outfit!
Linda, how has Zeena inspired your style?
Linda: Zeena encourages me to try new styles I otherwise might not, such as skinny jeans. She also recommends clothes and accessories that she sees when shopping online.
What is something that you want from Zeena’s closet?
Linda: Nothing comes to mind at the moment. My closet is bigger than hers so she’s welcome to raid mine!
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.
