KEY POINTS:
Sahar Lone likes wearing interesting clothes that make people think - or laugh
She has a pretty good idea where her interesting style originates from. Sahar Lone's mother is Indian and her father Pakistani.
"When I was little, my mum would sometimes dress me in more
traditional Indian clothes."
Even though those Indian clothes were pretty low-key - embroidered dresses and tops - like any kid, Lone didn't like this; she just wanted to fit in with all the other New Zealand children in their jandals and shorts.
But eventually she started to revel in her difference.
"People started to expect me to wear things that were a little more sparkly than most New Zealanders."
And now Lone says: "I like wearing things that will make people laugh and make them think."
In fact, the Auckland student, who's studying for a Bachelor of Communications, looks so interesting these days that people are always asking her how art school, or maybe fashion school, is going.
"I don't even tell them that's not what I'm doing anymore," Lone laughs.
"Now I just say, 'My new sculptures are great, thanks'."
What do you really want this winter?
I'd really like a big bag in the shape of a love-heart. I never got myself a pair of Lolita shades so I'm compensating now.
What do you wear to work?
When I'm not a shopgirl I work as an entertainer at the Fairy Shop in Ponsonby. I might be anything - a fairy, a mermaid or a princess - all of which involve lots of sparkles, wings and headpieces. Children who attend the parties we host are usually beautifully dressed too.
What can't you live without?
Super-rosy cheeks like a dolly. Too much blusher is too much fun.
What endures throughout the seasons?
Tights in different shades and patterns. I found a pair of white Christian Dior tights the other day that have flower posies in lace stitched all over them.
Who or what inspires you?
My friends, when we share obsessions or decide on a "team theme" for an evening. One of my favourite occasions would be the Isabella Blow tea party my friends threw, where we all wore appropriate headpieces. But sometimes it just happens without any communication at all.
Favourite fashion movie?
Troop Beverley Hills because Shelley Long's character gets away with being so bold. Pretty in Pink has turned me silly and I am obsessed with the girls from Heathers, and Jodie Foster in Taxi Driver. And I love, love, love some of the costumes I spotted while watching the 80s television show Fame.
When I was in high school I wore?
A uniform until my final year. I wore my hair too high on occasion though, trying for Marie Antoinette or Amy Winehouse proportions. I was into the idea of big scarves tucked into belts worn high at the waist. And I made a few necklaces from Barbie doll legs which got me a few odd looks from the teachers.
Any style icons?
Fran from the The Nanny because of her co-ordination and the way her outfits are put together. I think Pee Wee Hermann is also a winner because of his geekiness.
Best trend of the season?
Shorter tops and bustiers, because the early 90s ruled. I am really excited about astronomy and space too - it's got me seeing stars.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A wet weather hat which can be folded up into a bag made from the same fabric. It's huge and floral and I can't wait for the rain.
Most cherished item?
My sister and I have necklaces with jigsaw pieces on them. Her piece has the word "you" cut out and my piece has the word "me" cut out.
Your best beauty tip?
Two things I frequently forget: to drink plenty of water and to get to bed on time. Sleeping beauties need their beauty sleep.
Best fashion bargain?
A pair of green heeled shoes that appealed to me after reading about Vivienne Westwood shoes. The pair I bought are certainly not Westwood but they are are so ugly they're cool.
Best city for fashion shopping in the world?
I usually put in requests for things my Dad picks up in Gilgit or parts of Kashmir. He has brought back soft-soled, leather shoes and beautiful hats and coats for me on some of his trips over there.
Most underrated item in fashion?
Playsuits. They are so much fun and appeal to me because they're easy to wear in a different way each time. I also have a playsuit in the style of a child's romper-suit - customised for me in the fashion of Max from Where The Wild Things Are.
