The scientific researcher with a penchant for bow ties talks design.
It’s fairly uncommon to see a girl in a bow tie, much less while out shopping or having coffee, but it’s that sense of quirk that gets former scientific researcher turned online fashion retailer Lim Ai Chiin noticed at first glance. The bow tie has become something of a trademark, so it’s not surprising that Ai stocks handcrafted versions from London label Rory Hutton at her online store, Cuevolution, which she started up last July. “Bow ties are a new level of awesome,” she laughs. “I also wear them to the office, and so does my dad – I think they make a person look really sharp. Rory’s bow ties are so very individual, and completely reflect his personality!” “My style is, admittedly, a little boyish. Growing up, I thought skirts and dresses were a real nightmare! These days, while I’m more than happy to be in a pretty skirt or a dress, I still have a preference for trousers and jeans. I currently live in my oversized jumpers and boyfriend jeans,” says the 29-year-old, who had set aside a selection of her favourite pieces for this shoot. “That said, I like to experiment with different looks and have a soft spot for statement prints, especially those by Mary Katrantzou. My small collection of her dresses is slowly growing.”
Her penchant for print was the reason for stocking another London-based label, Cristina Sabaiduc, who’s known for her exclusive digital prints. “Cristina was the first person I thought of when I decided to start up Cuevolution,” she shares. “I’m absolutely in love with her prints! She collaborates with a