Nicole W Of Sometime By Asian Designers, On Practical Minimalism & Her Love For Long Shirt Dresses

She’s the cofounder of the iconic Niko-Niko bag, yet the quiet force prefers to let her work do the talking. When Nicole W created Sometime By Asian Designers, her intention was to underscore designs that are practical, durable and authentic, and above all, valuable for all time. Rather than turning to western influences, Nicole’s faith is in her Asian counterparts -- she's collaborated with Jason Wu, Datin Vivy Yusof and Rizalman -- for their influence on local needs. Her eye for timelessly minimalism and quality reflects in her fashion aesthetic, too: To her, style is functional above trendy, with respect for intelligent design. The white shirt dress is representation of her avant-garde manner, her go-to for round-the-clock attire. Cover graphic: Nurul Ain

Above Nicole W by Shaffiq Farhan / Malaysia Tatler

How does Sometime by Asian Designers represent and evolved with you?

“It’s more representative of urban girls or women who appreciate functional products, which blend with their style. This is an intelligent and down-to-earth community: They spend on products that are versatile and adaptable to many scenarios in their daily lives. The brand and products have evolved into timeless design; some minimalist, some are more; just enough to make sure it’s what you need from day to night, 30 days of the month.”

Above Photo: Courtesy of Zalora

In what way does functional and practical wear reflect you?

“I’ve slowed down in terms of purchasing luxury designer products for my personal use because often, I have to sacrifice usability and comfort for the look. So I custom made a lot, engaged local designers or tailors to create shirts, dresses or pants that I want, using material I like, with the cut and functionalities I need. It’s important to feel good and comfortable all day so I can focus on what I do. So besides healthy eating and sleeping, wearing it right is important for emotional wellbeing.”

Above Photo: Courtesy of @nikohlw/ Instagram

What are your 3 wardrobe essentials?

“Basic tees, long dresses and sneakers.”

What feeds your imagination?

“Travel. Creativity can be derived from every corner and any object. It exposes me to new cultures, architecture, people and the unpredictable. They are always the key inspiration to my work and how I improve my personal life.”

Above Photo: Courtesy of @nikohlw/ Instagram

How do you style: Outfit to accessory, or vice versa?

“I always make sure the accessories and outfits I own are versatile. Something that can be matched to multiple accessories or outfits rather than 1 item each. There are a couple of sets of accessories and outfit that will go together every time.”

What’s your style motto?

“Less is more.”

Above Nicole W by Shaffiq Farhan/ Malaysia Tatler

Why did you choose to style a white shirt dress?

“It is the most versatile wardrobe piece to match with almost anything. Imagine a white piece of paper: You can draw anything or paste anything on it to make it look better. It gives me so much freedom to add creativity on it.”