Ask Rochelle Lai (better known as Relle Lai) what she was like growing up, and she'd be quick to say that she was not known as an outgoing and gregarious child. Reserved and quiet, she was content with playing by herself, or focusing on her interests and tasks at hand. She loved art and fashion, but she certainly did not see herself getting into modelling as a career.
Life, however, had other plans. The 24-year-old, who has a Communication Design diploma, is now a fashion and lifestyle digital creator and model, with an Instagram following of close to 11,000. She's also a freelance graphic designer.
Facing an "identity crisis" in 2021, Relle decided to quit her full-time job as she felt that it limited her "time and energy for personal passions".
It was during this period that she began documenting her outfits and other visually pleasing items on her Instagram account.
This caught the attention of brands, who started reaching out with opportunities for her to model or create content for them. Her big break came when she published a post featuring Gentle Monster, an eyewear brand from South Korea.
"It became a turning point for me where I began taking it all more seriously," she says.
When it comes to her personal style, Relle says the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi (an appreciation of the beauty of imperfection) is something that deeply influences her.
She also adores Brutalism, an architectural style associated with rough, unfinished surfaces, unusual shapes, and a utilitarian feel.
Bu hikaye Her World Singapore dergisinin January 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Her World Singapore dergisinin January 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
What Are Some Watches That Double As Pieces Of Art?
The Bvlgari Fenice High Jewellery watch is a spell-binding expression of the Italian jeweller's audacious aesthetic.
Getting To The Seoul Of K-Beauty
The days of complex 10-step skincare routines may be behind us, but K-beauty's skin-first approach continues to dominate markets worldwide. Here's a closer look at the phenomenon.
My Super Power Is Saying No
It's 2009, and some 1.67 million Singaporeans are tuning into the two-hour finale of the hit Chinese language series The Little Nyonya, transfixed by the multi-generational saga of three Peranakan families.
New York State Of Mind
Inspired by the Big Apple, Coach's new Times Square Tabby is an amalgamation of the city's love stories, both old and new.
Building Safer Workplaces
As an increasing number of workplaces are understanding the importance of mental health, we ask three leaders what it will take to move the needle to create environments where we can speak up, challenge the status quo, and have our needs met.
What Beauty Routine Should You Follow If You Have Eczema?
Quinn Chen, co-founder of Singapore beauty brand, Ice's Secret, answers.
A Mid-Career Change Is Not A Crisis
A mid-career switch, while daunting, can be the key to unlocking a more fulfilling and aligned professional life.
It's Cool To Get Cold
Ice baths are popping up around Singapore, waiting for you to take the plunge.
Will joining a breast cancer support group help me with my healing journey?
Emily Goh, senior medical social worker, answers.
PASSION FOR A CAUSE
Rebellion of the academic sort - runs in Anna Yip's blood. The deputy CEO of Singtel Singapore tells us how self-love, confidence, and a passion for tech guide her as she leads one of the nation's most established telecommunications companies into the future.
