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If reality is stranger than fiction, then you wouldn’t be surprised to know that the colourful characters featured in the pages of Singapore Tatler lead lives that truly embody that crazy rich Asian spirit. In part one of this three-part series, we shine the spotlight on Calista Cuaca
Say the name Calista Cuaca and any millennial worth their weight in Instagram likes will be familiar with socialite Jamie Chua’s daughter. Better known as @xcalikins on Instagram, this social media superstar lives a privileged life, hitting the best parties in town, and always togged out in the coolest gear.
(Related: Calista Cuaca, Mae Tan and Friends Dance in Ferragamo's New Viva Shoes)
And while this James Cook University marketing student boasts an enviable style, this is one fashionista who doesn’t believe in overhyped pieces and head‑to-toe designer looks.
We ask her what she really thinks about luxury and trends.
Do you think money can buy style?
Calista Cuaca (CC) No. A lot of people just buy the most expensive things or a shirt that shows the logo in a really obvious way. Maybe it’s just not my style, but I feel like that’s not fashion, that’s just showing off.
Do you think you would be less stylish if you didn’t have as much money?
CC I don’t think so. I always wear clothes that make me feel confident. If I didn’t have money to buy something that I like, I’d find a cheaper alternative that’d still make me feel good wearing it.
Is luxury fashion actually getting way too expensive?
CC Yes, in some ways I think it might be. But there are also many pieces where hours of hard work and craftsmanship go into them. They could be heavily embroidered and embellished or completely handmade by the artisans in the atelier, so they deserve to be priced that way.