Style Anatomy: With Naima Zahin

Naima Zahin, who goes by the name, The Sassy Londonista, is a professional make-up artist, personal stylist and fashion influencer based in London. With a career spanning over 11 years, she has worked with some of the A-listers in the Pakistani media community and Bollywood celebrities in Singapore, Dubai and the UK. This week, TEdit decodes Naima’s personal style.

How would you describe your personal style?

Elegant, modern and trend driven- I like to dress up according to my mood and the weather, darker outfits in winter and bright and happy during the summer.

How has your style changed over the years?

Ans: Over the years my style has inevitably been influenced by Instagram and social media, and in general, especially when it comes to certain trends and being more confident in my own style. As a teen it was always basic and minimalistic- from my outfits to my make-up - I went through that black kohl liner only- look (thank God that’s over *lol*) as I grew older and became more aware of my style personality - my style evolved with me and became more modern and sophisticated.

What do you carry effortlessly eastern or western wear?

Ans: Both! But I love eastern outfits - they are part of my identity, like I’m low-key obsessed with them. Living in London, I jump at any excuse to take out my shalwar kameez. I’ve roamed around Regent Street in desi outfits. I don’t care. I have an inclination towards eastern wear but I use a healthy dose of both.

How do you dress according to your body type?

Ans: So my body type is rectangular, which means there is not too much of a definition to my silhouette, and it’s fairly straightforward. I usually go for A-line skirts, ruffled and layered tops. Dresses that add definition to my necklines and volume to the upper body. Sleeveless, strapless and sweetheart lines are my thing. I also love blazers, long jackets and capes.

In your opinion what is the biggest mistake a person can make while dressing up?

Ans:Not dressing up according to their style, personality and body shape. It can be disastrous!

What is the one piece of clothing that you shy away from wearing and why?

Ans: Nothing in particular, I don’t mind experimenting, if it’s something I’m not comfortable with, I simply try to style it in different ways before finally getting it right.

What are three essential clothing items everyone should have in their wardrobe?

Ans:

1. A good and fitted pair of jeans (according to your body type)

2. A good quality leather jacket - black to be precise.

3. A classic crossbody bag that goes with almost everything!

What’s the basic mistake girls make while choosing a silhouette for themselves?

Answer: One common mistake I have noticed is not dressing according to your body shape. It can make you look older and frumpy- there are so many quizzes online that can help people determine their body shape. When it comes to fashion and style there are no rules that say one-style-fits-all.