Connections: how friendship inspires our style
Two of the faces of our holiday campaign – best friends Peipei and Ruoyi – share the style lessons they’ve learned from each other and the special pieces that keep them feeling connected. By MEGAN LOGUE
On fashion and identity
Peipei: I first discovered the joy of dressing up when I was in junior high. I’m an illustrator and have been practicing fine art since I was a child. I think it made me very sensitive in terms of esthetic. I realized early on that fashion is a form of self-expression and an extension of your personality.
Ruoyi: I’ve always been interested in fashion; when I was in kindergarten, I wanted to be a designer. In many cases, you can tell a person’s interests and personality just from the way they dress.
On personal style
P: I’m really into 1960s and ’70s culture, which has had an influence on my style. I love psychedelic and vintage-style pieces, like flared pants. However, I’d also say I’m a bit of a ‘mori girl’. It’s a Japanese phrase that literally translates as ‘girl who looks like she lives in the forest’. The look is defined by a focus on natural materials like cotton, linen and wool, in neutral colors.
R: My style has definitely been influenced by Japanese films from the ’90s – which I’m really passionate about.
On inspiring each other
P: Most people tend to add elements and details to their outfits, while Ruoyi prefers to simplify hers. She always looks so elegant. I remember, one day, we were having dinner and I noticed that she had paired a sleek black suit with a corset. It was a gorgeous combination. Inspired by her, I also try to play with masculine and feminine elements when I’m creating a look.
R: We don’t tend to borrow one another’s clothes, but we always go shopping together and help pick new pieces for each other. We both love how the other one dresses, but we don’t emulate each other. We have our own esthetics.
On lockdown
P: I don’t think my style has changed because of lockdown, but dressing up has become more important to me. Before lockdown, I would usually wear pretty casual outfits, but now, I’m more interested in getting dressed up – even if I’m just going for a walk. It gives me a sense of satisfaction, boosts my mood and leaves me feeling more positive.
R: Lockdown hasn’t had a huge impact on my style; however, it has given me a lot more time to dedicate to online shopping, so I have purchased some new pieces.
On nostalgia
P: One of the first times we were hanging out together, Ruoyi and I got caught in a torrential downpour with no umbrellas and nowhere to hide. Ruoyi took off the red leather jacket she was wearing and sheltered us with it. I was so touched. We didn’t know each other very well at the time, but that simple act made me feel really close to her. After that, we became best friends.
R: We first met at a picnic. Peipei was wearing a little fringed bag that was a little bit bohemian and totally ‘her’. The bag, or any piece I spot with a gypsy-style vibe, always reminds me of her and the good times we’ve spent together.