UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

FLORENCE LOW SLOAN is ready for her close-up. The Los Angeles-based producer chats with Shireen Zainuddin about her experiences behind the camera-and being in front of it for this exclusive cover story.

- Shireen Zainuddin

"It's time to show Malaysian women that they can do this, too."

-Florence Low Sloan

A smile lighting up her face, Florence Low Sloan notes, “I haven’t done a personal interview like this in a really long time. Maybe ever.” She’s seated at the makeshift makeup table in a white t-shirt and a pleated Dior tennis skirt. Chloé platform trainers dangle from the end of her long, crossed legs. There’s a teenage freshness to her cool elegance. She calls her personal style “classic with an edge.” It shows. She likes to keep it interesting.

Stylists, editors, and crew are jostling for room in the pared-back sophistication of the RuMa Grand Suite, where this cover shoot is taking place. There is an impressive view of the Twin Towers that is almost compulsory in sought-after properties in KL these days. It’s like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It has to be visible.

It’s evident that Florence is used to being on a set. She keeps things calm, is friendly and addresses the crew by name. “I definitely prefer being behind the camera.” But Dato’ Seri Dr Farah Khan, fashion icon, pioneer in so many ways, and friend and mentor to Florence persuaded her that “it’s time to show Malaysian women that they can do this, too”.