Yes, You Can Sit With Christabel And Kimberly

IN FACT, @BELLYWELLJELLY AND @OHHOWSTRANGE INVITED CLEO TO SIT DOWN WITH THEM AT STRAITS CLAN, WHERE WE TALKED ABOUT THEIR FRIENDSHIP, EXPERIENCING SOCIAL MEDIA FATIGUE, AND HOW WE’RE ALL TRYING, IN OUR OWN LITTLE WAYS, TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT THAT UPLIFTS OTHER WOMEN.

- Sophie Hong

Neither Christabel Chua nor Kimberly Wang, both 28, can pinpoint exactly how their friendship blossomed. All they know is that their paths first crossed about four years ago because they both go to Private Room to get their nails and lashes done. Then one day (maybe after an event—they’re not too sure), they decided to get McDonald’s.

Over nuggets, fries and soft serve, they had a heart-to-heart.

“From the first time we sat down and talked, we just clicked. And it’s very weird; I’m actually quite introverted but with her, the conversation kept going,” Kimberly recounts.

“We sat and talked for a few hours, then we left knowing that, ‘Hey, we can be friends,’” adds Christabel with a smile.

When we talk about the influencer scene, a Mean Girls-esque picture comes to mind. But here are two personalities who are demonstrating the power of collaboration, and how celebrating someone else’s success doesn’t take away from your own.

For proof, just look at the campaigns the power duo has fronted for the likes of LANEIGE, Dior, M.A.C —and this magazine you’re reading right now.

On their friendship

Christabel: I’ve had a lot moments where I thought: ‘Wow, I’m really thankful to have this friend in my life.’

Kimberly: That’s nice to hear! (laughs) Like, phew, thank goodness.

C: She’s so supportive of my emotional and business needs, and it’s very generous. It comes from a very genuine place, and it’s without boundaries, with no strings attached. And thankfully, she likes the things I make. (laughs) [Ed’s note: Christabel also runs her own product line, K i]