After the launch of Giuseppe Zanotti’s Fall/ Winter 2016 collection, we stole a moment with Tengku Chanela Jamidah, founder of fashion label Thavia and co-founder of Dida For Women cosmetics. We spoke to the stylish businesswoman about her style icons, favourite holiday destination and which pair of heels from Giuseppe Zanotti’s Fall/Winter 2016 collection caught her eye.
LifestyleAsia (LSA): How would you describe your personal style?
Tengku Chanela Jamidah (TCJ): I’m quite the chameleon. On weekdays when I work I’m in casual, comfortable clothing. Some call it “effortless” or similar to the “model off duty” look. But on evenings when I have events, I love pieces that are a little more dramatic, like key looks of the season. Something that’s trendy and a little more glamorous.
LSA: Favourite daily accessories?
TCJ: Earrings. I feel naked without them. I also love stacking my bracelets and an eclectic selection of rings from ALT.
LSA: Who’s your style icon(s)?
Victoria Beckham and Christine Centenara. Victoria for classic silhouettes and Christine for chic, on-trend pieces. I love how she is always in contemporary Australian labels like Christopher Esber and Ellery.
LSA: How did you get into fashion design?
TCJ: Well, I don’t actually really design, but I am part of the creative process. I provide all the visuals, inspiration pictures and references. But I do personally select the fabrics, which is part of the reason why I do this because I love fabric sourcing. Seeing a creation come to life is part of the thrill I get and it gives me so much satisfaction. I got into fashion because I recognised the need for a Malaysian brand that has everyday versatile pieces at an accessible price point. You don’t have to spend exorbitantly to get the look.
LSA: Can you give us a sneak peek of your upcoming collections? Maybe some themes or key patterns if any?
TCJ: I would say that it has a bit of velvet — the key fabric for 2017. I’m excited as this collection shows that Thavia has matured and developed in it’s identity.
LSA: What do you do for fun?
TCJ: Dance. I always find time to do a bit of dancing. Music is the one thing that soothes my soul.
LSA: Do you cook? What’s your go-to dishes?
TCJ: I’m not made for the kitchen, but I cook pasta dishes for my kids, made with love. I’m happy they like my cooking!
LSA: Besides hot yoga, do you do any other kind of workout?
TCJ: I do fire station. It’s quite similar to HIIT.
LSA: Beach or city?
TCJ: Right now, beach for sure. Need some relaxation and vitamin sea.
LSA: Coffee or tea?
TCJ: Tea. Coffee gives me headaches. Teh tarik FTW.
LSA: Favourite holiday destination so far?
TCJ: South of France. It’s the most beautiful place I’ve seen. I especially love the countryside… I can imagine myself growing old in that sort of environment.
LSA: Which pair did you choose from Giuseppe Zanotti’s Fall/ Winter 2016 collection?
TCJ: I chose the black patent leather ‘Natasha‘ strappy pumps from Giuseppe Zanotti.
LSA: And why this pair?
TCJ: I love black. Its my go-to colour and part of my identity plus it compliments all types of clothing. I really like how the pair I chose has a little bit of height but is also strappy and elegant.
LSA: How would you style them?
TCJ: I would wear them with skinny jeans and off shoulder tops.
LSA: What do you like about the collection?
TCJ: It’s glamorous and a little bit edgy and fun. The heels always look so well created and finished. You can definitely recognise the Zanotti touch.
LSA: Complete this, “Shoes are…”
TCJ: Shoes are your loyal companions that are with you every single day of your life, so I choose the ones with a little bit of character!
To see more of Tengku Chanela Jamidah, follow her on Instagram @tcjamidah. Special thanks to Impiana KLCC Hotel and Giuseppe Zanotti.