Singapore's Most Stylish Women 2015: Rathi Menon
From strengths to insecurities, sartorial treasures to sentimental heirlooms, this year’s modern muses reveal what lies beneath that polished surface, and their hopes to inspire and do good
Wool skirtsuit; silk blouse; leather heels, Gucci. Helmet, Rathi’s own
RATHI MENON
Miss Singapore Universe 2014, biker chick, cat lady
Harper's BAZAAR Singapore: What are your fashion “security blankets”?
Rathi Menon: A pair of black boots and a leather fringe jacket, before I go for a spin on my bike.
HB: What made you decide to try out for Miss Universe?
RM: I had zero modelling experience prior to the competition, but my friends and family always said I should try it out; so I did. I wanted to give it a shot before it was too late. I sent them pictures taken with my phone, and got a call back. The rest is history.
HB: How did you get through the pageant process alone?
RM: My personal style is pretty diverse, I can go from a full leather biker get-up to a slinky gown. But I needed professional help for this. Thankfully, celebrity stylist Ines Ligron was there to mentor me before the big event. We pulled together a wardrobe and worked out all the details, then I flew to Florida on my own with four huge suitcases.
HB: What goes through your mind before stepping out on stage in front of judges?
RM: When the lights are on you, even the slightest ounce of fear or insecurity shows. But honestly,
in that moment, all I feel is exhilaration. I don’t think of what could go wrong, I just start walking and smiling—it’s such a rush. I approach life with a similar carpe diem spirit.
HB: How are you giving back to society?
RM: Since the pageant, I started receiving letters and messages from young girls about their insecurities and I make it a point to write them back in hopes that my story will steer them in the right direction and boost their confidence. I also use social media to spread good messages and show them the real me: A 25-year-old going through university, riding my bike to fashion shoots, and occasionally, fulfilling my role as the neighbourhood cat lady. I used to work in a vet clinic, so whenever a kitten or cat needs to be nursed, it’s Rathi to the rescue.
By Dana Koh and Pakkee Tan
Photographed by Gan
Styled by Windy Aulia
Hair/makeup: Grego, Amy Chow, Cindy Goh, Joy Tan/Indigo Artisans, Joanna Koh/Indigo Artisans
Photography assistants: Ang Jong Jye, Samsidi Baderi
Assistant stylist: Debby Kwong
Additional assistance: Tanya Anthony, Nayeun Kim