Personal Style
Unabashedly bold yet always composed, BAZAAR uncovers the jewellery designer’s closet of inspiration. By Haida Yusof.
The icon of individualism and master of over-accessorising, Iris Apfel once mused, “More is more and less is a bore.” There is something quite fabulous about layering, and Eva Soh, founder and creative director of Xevana Jewelry, is well-versed in the language of making strong statements with fashionable pieces. An ardent believer in standing out from the crowd, Eva stays true to her unique take on fashion, but not without a few muses. “My icons are Bianca Jagger, Kate Moss, and Jane Birkin. However, copying alone won’t distinguish yourself from the rest. It’s about owning your style DNA but allowing yourself to evolve as you go along,” says Singapore-based Eva.
“The pieces in my wardrobe and my styling aesthetics are influenced by Monica Rose, the stylist who was instrumental in Kendall Jenner’s street style evolution,” explains Eva.
The process of dressing herself also comes from within and every source of inspiration she can find. Magazines, books, and Pinterest—curating looks that would befit her “dainty yet loud personality” takes great effort and good taste on her part.
Eva also proclaims her love for current go-to designer, Olivier Rousteing—quite possibly the man who continues to inspire her all-out style. “Balmain is a changing force in fashion, especially among this social media-frenzied generation.” Moved by a magazine interview in which Olivier claimed that those who wear Balmain are warrior women, she says, “Those were words that showed me how fashion could truly mobilise a political statement. His work is a powerful expression that respects what women can do and be.”
“I curate looks that would do well for my dainty form and loud personality.” – Eva Soh
Quite fittingly, this idea of strength in femininity translates to the bold jewellery pieces she produces for her brand. It is the same belief that she takes on when styling her ensembles. Even if it means sacrificing comfort for style, especially in this tropical climate. “My only lighter pieces are silk slips and satin palazzo pants. The rest are dominatated by heavy pieces made of wool and knit,” she shares.
Rousteing’s no-holds-barred point of view also has this 28-year-old apply a similar mantra to her everyday schedule. “I’m my own boss, so I have the luxury of setting my own dress code for work. I endorse a creative and more casual dress code in the office, as long as it is as presentable for meetings.”
Wearing a bulky, textured peach bolero coat worn on top of champagne-hued trousers, Eva doesn’t have to try too hard to sell her own version of the #GirlBoss manifesto. “Today’s woman on top like Nasty Gal’s Sophia Amoruso is what we should aspire to be. As a businesswoman myself, dressing up for the part is important, regardless of the goals you have set for yourself on that day.”
Eva’s inspiring sense of style and spirited expressions are enough to have us dust off the statement blazers and embellished denims we’ve bought on a whim, the ones that have not seen the light of the day. Just layer and flaunt, for a power work look. After all, where else would you be wearing them, #GirlBoss?