3 Minute Thread: Zoe Suen
"You’re never going to wear the pieces you’re (I’m) keeping (hoarding) that are just a little bit too tight. Also, how well things wash really matters."
A few weeks ago, I spent an hour lost in conversation with Zoe. We were cloistered away in Liberty’s new restaurant, after a mutual friend suggested we meet. It was the perfect introduction - Zoe was as interesting, astute and intelligent as I’d hoped, and very elegant, too. Of course I had to invite her onto 3 Minute Threads!
Who are you?
I’m Zoe, a Hong Kong-born, London-based freelance writer.
What are you wearing?
A black cheongsam top from my mum; Samuel Gui Yang trousers; Auralee loafers; a Maeden bag; and a Betsey Johnson leather coat from my local consignment store.
Why did you choose this outfit?
These few weeks in London have been very confusing, weather-wise, and I probably won’t get to wear this jacket much once we do truly descend into winter—had to get some wear out of it while I could! I have many cheongsam tops, but this one is my favourite, and I tend to gravitate towards them when I don’t know what to wear.
I love the colour of these Samuel Gui Yang trousers (I have the matching top too) and the button detail. I’ve always avoided yellows and golds generally, but this set has warmed me to the latter. I wear a lot of black in the colder months so it’s nice to brighten up an otherwise monochrome get-up.
Where did you wear it/ where are you planning to wear it?
I wore it at home (sans coat) under a big sweater, and then out to dinner in the evening.
What’s the best style lesson you’ve learned over the years?
You’re never going to wear the pieces you’re (I’m) keeping (hoarding) that are just a little bit too tight. Also, how well things wash really matters.
One person you think has great style?
Tina Chow—I channelled her with the headpiece I wore (by London brand Wed) at my wedding reception. What I’d do for a glimpse into her wardrobe of Fortuny dresses and jewellery she designed for her eponymous brand...
Best life hack?
I’m trying to be less of a bag lady for the sake of my back and shoulders, and have directed that energy towards packing the perfect emergency pouch that I bring (almost) everywhere. It’s smaller than my hand, and fits: medication; various hair fasteners and lip products; period products; a mirror; a sunscreen stick; mints; a charger cable; a lighter; band-aids; and more.
Your favourite person to follow?
I’m currently obsessed with Suea and the way she sees the world; I also love Historycoolkids and Le Dauphin. Carmen Atiyah de Baets (her personal account, and the account for her guesthouse + store) and Akio Hasegawa are also go-tos when I’m stuck for ideas when getting dressed.
One recommendation to read/ watch/ listen/ see or do?
I recently wrote a piece for The Pass on Daquise, a Polish restaurant in London that will sadly be closing, likely at the end of the year. So I’d say read the story for my perfect order (trust me), and go while you can if you’re in London. Listen to my friend Cehryl’s new album of ambient vignettes, which makes me feel like I’m back in Hong Kong.
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