Avant Guard is a series that digs into a personality’s fashion hacks, dos and don’ts, red flags, and more. In this edition, Nalisa Alia Amin shares her fashion preferences—what she has on her current rotation and what’s on her current fashion wish list.
There’s a glimmer of hope in body diversity—on runways or billboards—but the lack of representation remains the elephant in the room. Curvy models and advocates for body positivity all over the world are fighting relentlessly, and Nalisa Alia Amin is the strong local voice for change, armed with unwavering confidence and exceptional fashion style, further cementing the adage, ‘fashion is for everyone’.
One of the proudest moments, as Nalisa recalls, was being the first curvy model to open the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW); she is not just a player in the game, she’s changed it, and she didn’t stop just there. With a generous amount of following, she made full use of her platform to help in calling out period spot checks and sexual harassment in schools back in 2021, which eventually—and successfully—gained attention from the Ministry of Education. Ultimately, she has become a role model for many young girls, not only as a pathbreaker in local fashion but also as an inspiration to all the curvy women.
When it comes to fashion, Nalisa is at the forefront—she is bold. Rebellious, even. Ahead, Nalisa shares her preferences—from her current wish list to her controversial fashion opinions—as a fashion model.
Confess a fashion crime that you have committed before
Blindly following micro trends that didn’t feel like me. It’s giving fashion victim, and I was the crime scene.
A fashion item you cannot leave the house without
My dark lens sunglasses that allow me to people watch without looking like a creep. My earrings, necklaces and rings. I once left the house in a rush, and I forgot to wear my rings—I felt so naked.
Three items that are on your fashion wish list right now
This Versace leather trench with Barocco silk lining, knee-high wide-calf boots, and a sturdy pair of leather boot-cut pants.
Your first luxury purchase
A brand-new iPhone, paid in cash. Nothing says “luxury” like avoiding credit card debt.
A talent from the fashion industry you would like to work with
Paloma Elsesser, hands down. I’d also sell my soul—temporarily—to work with Mugler and Jean Paul Gaultier. And for photographers? I love working with female photographers, so Sarah Bahbah, Amber Asaly, Petra Collins and Cass Bird are on my list.
A fashion tip you’re gatekeeping right now. Spill.
Always size up when shopping online, especially if you’re unsure. It’s easier to take something in to alter than to force it on.
What is your favourite fashion accessory?
Accessories! Layering jewellery is like turning a simple meal into a Michelin-star dish.
A trend that needs to die
Old money aesthetic. It’s a costume party to feed off another consumerism trick. Real old money isn’t about tweeds, beige and boring; it’s eclectic and rich with personality. It’s all about customs and quality.
A fashion red flag
Copy-pasting every famous influencer looks. Death to individuality is truly a recession indicator.
A controversial fashion opinion you have
If your designs only work on tall, skinny people, are you even a designer? Loving and respecting women means celebrating their diversity, not excluding it.
If you could only wear one fashion brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tough choice, because I’m usually a mix and match kind of girl, but a closet full of Mugler, Maison Margiela, Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier and John Galliano’s time in Dior would be a dream. They’re all about fun, sexy rebellion—just like me.
Your lazy day outfit
Tank top with linen trousers, effortless chic with zero effort.
What is your last fashion purchase?
A few preloved dresses from a friend’s sale.
Your biggest regret purchase
Cheap costume jewellery that tarnished faster than my patience. I should’ve gone for timeless over trends.
A song that will always get you in the mood to get ready
Depends on the vibe! Rock for grunge, R&B, Afrobeats or a good mix I’ve saved on my SoundCloud for sexy nights out—but you’ll never catch me getting ready to a sad song.
A fashion memory you’d want to erase
Teen me in my Hello Kitty-meets-Harajuku phase. It was…a choice, and it died fast.
A fashion icon that you’ve always looked up to
Rihanna, obviously. She oozes confidence in every look. And Paloma Elsesser—fresh, fun, and redefining curvy girl cool.
Something from your wardrobe that you’d love to pass down
My mom just passed me her fine jewellery collection, so I’d love to keep that legacy alive for my kids.
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