Guan Min, 23, founder of Feist Heist

The young fashion designer has amassed a large following with her label and online store Feist Heist (www.feistheist.com), which specialises in affordable basics that are versatile yet edgy – think details like asymmetrical hems and peek-aboo cut-outs – at affordable prices for men (Heist) and women (Feist). Local boutique Blackmarket, which has carried Feist Heist since shortly after its inception, counts it as one of its best-selling brands.

Guan Min’s own wardrobe is a breath-catching mix of minimalist, gothic pieces and statement accessories, such as her pair of Maison Martin Margiela acrylic heels.

The look: ‘Bipolar, minimal and kind of gothic.’

Style icon: ‘Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. They’re trendsetters – most people don’t understand their style at first, but they set standards without even realising it.’

Style secret: ‘It’s not how you put it together, but the item itself that counts. You could wear something really simple and still look good as long as it looks well made. Look out for the fabric, cut, sewing and finishing.’

Most treasured item: ‘A pair of Topshop jeans that I’ve had since secondary school. It started out skinny, but now it’s stretched into a boyfriend jean.’

Wardrobe essential: ‘Anything with leather. It could be a bag, shoes or a jacket. Good leather helps to complete an outfit and give a bit of edge.’

Where she shops: ‘Blackmarket, because it’s great they support young designers.’

Local designers she digs: ‘I used to intern at alldressedup and that’s where I got really interested in fashion design. They’re very consistent. Until today, they still keep to their aesthetic without following trends for the sake of it.’

Grooming secret: ‘I use argan oil for my hair and Revlon lipstick in Really Red – it’s the best and it’s really cheap.