Spotlight is a regular series where we feature a prominent person in the style scene. This month we speak with Ling, fashion stylist.
Tell us a little bit about your background. How did you become a stylist?
I first studied stage design at Shanghai Theatre Academy. Upon graduating, I started working as a makeup artist. I made some contacts and soon enough I was partnering with media company Hearst on a number of projects that often went beyond makeup. I decided to launch my own style studio Ling-Image following that experience and here I am today, a full-time stylist.
Your aesthetic in a nutshell.
Timeless, realistic and with a penchant for beauty.
How do you get inspired?
I love traveling, especially to places that are architecturally unique. I also love going to home décor stores and art exhibitions. Movies and music are important sources of inspiration too, and so is talking to people in the fashion industry or my friends. I have a huge crush on textiles and fashion-related materials; they give me a lot of new ideas and stimulus as well.
Favorite places to shop in Shanghai?
Xintiandi Style. A lot of my designer friends have their stores there.
What’s in your bag right now?
A customized snake leather business card case from March5, a CK lipstick, an iPhone 6, a Prada wallet and a Burberry cardholder.
What’s the most fun styling job you’ve ever done?
My team and I worked on a show called 'Tokyo Girl Collection' once, for which we did a doll-like look and an Indian princess look for artist and model Hannah Quinlivan and T-ana Ding. We came up with a vinyl disc turned headwear and a bubble-like party outfit that were really eye-catching. Usually we have more creative freedom when we do parties and costume collections.
Do you have a favorite item to wear?
I’m currently obsessed with headwear in all colors and styles. Hats can immediately style a look. My favorite item this winter would be Ji Cheng’s wings embroidered jumpers though.
Give us three tips to style an outfit.
I dress pretty casually in fall and winter, but I have some do’s and don’ts: 1- Never wear down jackets, as I think they make you look incredibly bloated. I prefer an overcoat with boots, and a scarf for an extra layer of warmth; 2- Once you hit 25, never wear more than three colors at once. 3- Choose one or two accessories to style your look. I usually sport lots of different hats and bags. Details often make the first impression.
Worst fashion faux pas?
Wearing something to make up for an imperfect figure. If you aren’t happy with your body, don’t hide it behind ill-fitting clothes: go workout instead.
Fashion is…
A way to improve yourself and gain more selfconfidence. Good styling or a good outfit can make you stand out, and feel like a completely different person, which in turn can lead to more opportunities. That has to be paired with being nice inside of course – the two aspects go together.
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