After two sell-out collaborations and months of anticipation, Uniqlo U is finally here. Making its debut in Malaysia today, the Fall/Winter lineup marks Christophe Lemaire’s first collection as Uniqlo’s Artistic Director. Embodying the brand’s philosophy behind its LifeWear line of comfortable and high-quality clothing, Lemaire elevates and redefines wardrobe essentials; whether through silhouettes, details or fabric choice. Think basics to be anything but, well, basic.
With designs made to express one’s individuality, what better way to epitomise the essence of Uniqlo U than to have our readers experience the collection firsthand? After inviting readers to show off their style in our #BuroStreetStyle Instagram contest, only four were selected to be in an exclusive Buro 24/7 Malaysia and Uniqlo photoshoot. Each winner also walked away with RM200 worth of shopping vouchers and an outfit from the Uniqlo U collection. We get to know the four #BuroStreetStyle winners as they divulge their style, #OOTD tips and love for the new collection.
Valenditro Mathiew, 20
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”buro uniqlo u valen” rid=”4463″ order=”a_tstamp”} Describe your personal style.
I’m quite adventurous when it comes to my style. It all depends on the occasion and mood that I’m in. I could be in loud prints on one day and go monochrome the next. It’s utmost important to feel confident in my ensembles.
How do you master the art of snapping an #OOTD?
Natural lighting! Yes, it can get really hot when posing for a picture under the sun but hey, anything for a great #OOTD. Also, make sure your outfit does not blend in with a busy background; it needs to be the hero of the shot.
Having said that, did you feel less nervous while on set at the photoshoot?
It was a bit awkward for me when I first got in front of the camera but I became more relaxed with the photographer’s guidance. After seeing the Uniqlo U pieces and the looks styled by Jasmine, my nerves quickly dissipated. The photoshoot was such a wonderful and an unforgettable experience.
After viewing the Uniqlo U firsthand, can you describe the collection in three words?
Universal, quality, affordable.
What was your favourite piece from the Fall/Winter lineup?
It has got to be the button-up shirt for the group shot. The styling possibilities are endless; from leaving it un-tuck and slighty unbuttoned on a casual day to pairing it with a blazer for my college presentations. One could never go wrong with a plain white shirt!
Danielle Lee, 33
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”buro uniqlo u danielle” rid=”4464″ order=”a_tstamp”}Give us a brief account of your experience at the photoshoot.
I was really thrilled to be one of the first lucky ones to see the collection up-close and personal, let alone, model it for the shoot. It was so much fun trying out different and unexpected pairings.
What was your favourite part of the photoshoot?
I’m Head of Production for a local e-commerce brand, so I’m always surrounded by models who are all dolled up. So to be the one to have hair and makeup done instead, I was certainly overjoyed. I mean, which girl wouldn’t like that?
What do you like most about Uniqlo U?
I like how the collection transcends trends. Christophe Lemaire definitely brought a chic Parisian flair to everyday wardrobe essentials.
Tell us which piece you picked to go home with.
The oversized shirtdress is my favourite item because of its versatility. Not only can it be worn as a dress, it can also be styled as a top or even, as an outerwear.
How do you take a perfect #OOTD photo?
Whenever I’m heading to Instagram-worthy spots, it helps to plan my outfits ahead of time. I keep myself inspired with the help of social media, fashion influencers and even the people around me.
Juno Ko, 25
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Tell us how it feels to win the #BuroStreetStyle contest.
I’ve always been unlucky when it comes to competitions, so I was really ecstatic when I found out that I won. As a freelance hairstylist, it was an interesting experience to be in front of the camera for a change.
What is your go-to trick when snapping an #OOTD?
I find that being too pose-y makes everything look forced. Always keep it natural. Candid shots are the best!
What was the best part of the whole photoshoot experience?
My everyday style is a little bit of street with an edge, so to be dressed in Uniqlo U was definitely an eye-opener. I never knew I could rock some of the collection pieces, so it was a lot of fun to be styled in different looks that are simple but so effortlessly cool.
Do you have a favourite look?
I like the turtleneck and sweatpants combination. It’s such a lazy-day outfit yet so put-together at the same time. The cashmere blend turtleneck sweater is lightweight but it keeps me cozy – perfect for work since I’m constantly in air-conditioned studios.
If you could describe Uniqlo U in three words, what would they be?
Comfortable, functional, sophisticated.
Angelina Saw, 23
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”buro uniqlo u angeline” rid=”4466″ order=”a_tstamp”} How does it feel to win the #BuroStreetStyle contest?
It’s so exciting! Buro 24/7 is one of my go-to digital magazines, so to be a part of this whole experience really is a highlight for me.
Tell us about your first experience on set.
The photoshoot was a real pinch-me experience. I was nervous at first but everyone at the studio immediately made me feel at ease. I got to pull off unique pairings that I’ve never tried before or even thought of, thanks to Jasmine, the stylist.
After viewing and trying on the pieces, what are your thoughts on the collection?
I like how Uniqlo U features accessible pieces without compromising on style and quality. The Fall/Winter range has a good mix of silhouettes that are very wearable for daily wear, even for a professional working environment like my office.
Tell us about your favourite outfit from the photoshoot.
I loved my look with the grey pinstriped shirt and burgundy cardigan dress, which lent a preppy feel. It was very comfortable and I can see myself wearing the ensemble to the office on casual Fridays or to brunch on the weekend.
Do you have any tips on acing an #OOTD shot?
Always dress in what makes you feel comfortable. It’s important to look and feel good. Also, your outfit is a form of individual self-expression, so never take your #OOTD too seriously!
Credits:
Photography: Eric Chow/Blink Studio
Styling: Jasmine Leong
Art Direction: Chong Yi Suen
Hair: Bibian Leong/Hair Menu Wigs
Makeup: Joey Yap
Styling Assistant: Alyssa Lee
Related stories:
Coming soon: The Uniqlo U collection by Christophe Lemaire
Uniqlo’s first flagship store in Southeast Asia opens this September
Uniqlo’s Tadashi Yanai talks business, social media, and functionality in clothing
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