This week’s fashion idol is Eeli – one very remarkable young lady from New Zealand, who I just had to share with La Mimi readers.  Words could never truly describe this one of a kind, a little bit eccentric, a little bit savvy and very pretty fashion idol. Eeli’s notable fashion sense isn’t her only appeal though…It’s the quirky comment, lovely inspirational posts combined with ethereal photography that make her blog so interesting and addictive. Take a look at what she had to say and then head on over to her blog, Aphex Nation.

Eeli is wearing:
Wanko vintage button-up lace shirt (mothers)
Ninety-nine white strapless body-con mini dress
Parco Xchange black pantaloons
Vintage belt (fathers)
Rancid distressed combat boots
Diva multiple chain bracelet

1.  Name, Age, Location

Eeli Yen, 20, Wellington/New Zealand

2. Why Aphex Nation?
I wanted a name that was personal and distinctive from all others. I considered ‘Aphex’ a derivative of the Greek word ‘Aphenai’ which as itself means ‘Let Go’.

Thus ‘Let go nation’ was conceived. This is a privy reminder to myself that I should never keep my desires stifled by my own insecurities or any anxious pressure pressed upon me by the masses.

3.       What motivates you the most to keep posting in your blog?
The absolutely gorgeous people I’ve met and those that I have yet to meet. Truthfully the strongest factor in updating my blog is being able to (through this medium) keep in contact with all my friendlies

4.       Your style is very contemporary, hip and unique. How did it evolve into such?
Thank you! To be honest I’ve thought about this answer for some time and without meaning to sound narcissistic I think there lies an intrinsic base knowledge within me of which elements of fabrics/draping and accessories I believe complement each other. However, with this said the graduation from this is solely due to the power of the amazing bloggers in this little blogosphere of ours! Since I very rarely purchase magazines or find time to trawl through designers’ collections it has been a really fortunate escape to be able to drool, become curious and be well informed by everyone through their own blogs. I am truly amazed at the amount of knowledge, ideas and beautiful musings that everyone puts forth out here.

5.        How do you get over the nervousness of taking a risk with such bold fashion choices?
The old adage: “Fake it till you make it” becomes the most potent at these times. Regardless of whether you feel
confident or not as you step out of the door having personal faith that you are wearing your outfit for yourself and that it makes YOU feel good is important. Everything else you either ignore or gradually work upon.

6.       Where do you get most of your clothes?
The bulk of my clothes are acquisitions from thrift stores or vintage boutiques. Otherwise my mother has a wonderful
wardrobe that I raid (most times unknowing by her) and I customize many pieces too.

7.       One accessory you can’t live without.
Most definitely a classic black overcoat or trench. It is a timeless piece and my never-to-fail coverup whenever I’m in any rush. Otherwise THE accessory I cannot live without is my hairstyles. In every picture you’ll always see quite a number around my right wrist. Besides their obvious use of pulling hair aside they make convenient sock/stockings upholders and allows quick customization of large and too-long skirts or dresses. The result is a bulbous bit of fabric but if manipulated correctly you can achieve a whimsical flowing effect minus the bulging material.

8.       Do you see fashion anywhere in your future?
As a career? It is impossible to say but I like to believe I will be involved in some way. The industry is very difficult
to work in so I don’t want to make myself over-confident now in thinking this is the route I will be taking. However in
saying this fashion and style has been a passion of mine for a very long time and is something that provides much joy. As long as I am enjoying both of these they will remain an interest of mine.

9.      Who is your favourite designer and why?
Favourite seems like such a staunch word to use here. There are elements in many designers that I admire. For example NZ local Nom*D for their consistent androgynous and sombre outlook on style which I am a huge fan of, Rodarte for their mish mash of futuristic and off-kilter romance and Gareth Pugh for his other-worldly architectural brilliance.

10.      Any words of wisdom to La Mimi readers?
Hmmm, I don’t have any hugely evocative words to mention here but maybe a reminder to everyone that it is all well to be inspired by an outfit and to copy it but remember that there is immense strength in being different. Inject your own style and thoughts upon your outfit. After all the clothes you wear are one of the most overt ways in which you can express yourself to the world. You want them to see a glimpse of YOUR character right? Not anyone else’s. Diversity is a very beautiful part of life. Embrace it

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Thanks for visiting and keep in touch ~ Mimi.