Name: Stanley S.
Age: 21
Nationality: Macanese
Instagram: @samiphang
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What does the word “fashion” mean to you?
Fashion for me is a way to express oneself through how he or she dresses, and the core of it is to be yourself, as well as being original and innovative. It is also a kind of personal branding, a kind of lifestyle that one should not live without.
How would you describe your personal style?
At the present, I would describe my personal style as simplism, yet being delicate. I always style myself with one sparkling point throughout my whole look. It could be the accessories of a piece of clothing with a unique detail—that’s how I catch the attention from others. It does not work out if things are going on all over the place.
How do you get your daily dose of fashion information?
Social media, of course. Instagram, Facebook pages, etc. Sometimes it is nice to go window shopping or hang out with friends just to have a look at how people in the street dress nowadays. Good or bad, you can still learn from that.
Does fashion allow people to express their individuality or does it force people to conform?
At times I think fashion does not allow everyone to express themselves. We are always told to dress “properly” ‘cause we ain’t no celebrities or fashion models. Fashion in a way is seen as something that categorizes people—some are allowed to be a part of it, while some should keep their distance, which I do not agree with.
Does the media (or the fashion industry) play some role in creating or continuing stereotypes?
Definitely. I know a lot of people in the industry are trying to break the boundary, for example, of beauty. But it is not something that can be changed in a day or two. Even though some people are fighting them, stereotypes still exist.
How does Macau inspire the way you dress?
It does teach me to hold back and not to be bold. But a real fashion lover knows how to work it out under whatever limits.
What do you think of Macau’s fashion scene? How can it be improved?
In such small city like Macau, it is hard for a new guy to have your own spot in Macau’s fashion scene. You have to do it with capital, as well as personal relations.
What’s your go-to outfit when you don’t know what to wear?
Black or white plain t-shirt, with ripped jeans or whatever. Just keep it simple.
What is your favorite place to shop in Macau?
I would say The Venetian. I think most people in Macau do too. Also, some stores with clothing imported from Korea.
Who takes photos of your outfits?
My friends and I do it on my own at times.
How much attention do you pay to fashion in terms of trends in the way you dress?
Not too much to be honest. I don’t like to be bound or carried by the flow. I don’t like to dress like everyone else. But for sure I buy new clothes and that may reflect the new trends. I guess that is how I get the information from the industry currently.
Which social media platform are you most active on? and why?
Facebook, Instagram and WeChat moments are some of my most active social media. These are the platforms that my friends also are most active on and I think I did a great job in establishing my personal branding through my pose. Moreover, I am considering starting up a YouTube channel.
Which celebrities have the best style to you?
A lot of them are great, but my latest attention is on Cara Delevingne.
How can Macau improve its fashion scene?
That’s hard to say. I guess they have to invite me to take part in it.
