FOUNDER OF fashion and lifestyle blog, Sex And Singapore City.
Nixalina is the founder of fashion and lifestyle blog, Sex And Singapore City. They say fortune favours the bold. Bold — that is one way to describe Nixalina, not merely for her statement-making style (“I’m a maximalist — I always overdress,” she declares), but also for having the courage to follow her dream and make a career switch from make-up artist to writer.
In 2011, she launched her own blog Sex And London City, with a focus on dating. It earned her the title, “London’s answer to Carrie Bradshaw”. She also contributed to fashion magazines including Glamour UK and Cosmopolitan UK. Shortly after her relocation to Singapore, Nixalina decided to expand her digital platform to appeal to local readers. With that in mind, Sex And Singapore City was born, now complete with her own podcast of the same name.
“To inspire. to empower. to dare.” That, as you may already know, is ByCanary’s mission statement. Designing jewellery that allows women to feel like the best version of themselves — and to show up in the world with confidence as they are, unique and fabulous — is our raison d’être. It is also the reason why we are always on the lookout for creative individuals who dare to own their style and make their own rules to create out of the box. In our latest collaboration, Nixalina is our co-designer for the Greek-themed collections “Athena” and “Apollo” featuring feather and sun motifs. Read on to learn more about Nixalina’s take on fashion, style, tips on layering jewellery and the inspiration behind the pieces.
Nixalina: I knew early on that I wanted to become a writer, and being a journalist at a fashion magazine or a newspaper was the obvious career option. I went to university to hone my write skills. When I graduated, right off the bet I started working as a writer for a London magazine. The plan was to garner more experience in the publishing industry full-time, but along the way, I set up my own blog and honestly, had no idea at the time how much this would change the course of my life. Now, I am a podcaster, presenter and blogger — and I get to call this work.
I was an award-winning blogger running Sex & London City in the UK for about eight years before moving to Singapore in 2017. I established my brand in 2019 having served 2.5 years as deputy online editor at Her World magazine. Once Sex & Singapore City digital platform was created, I swiftly went on to create a podcast with the same name, and since then, it's gone from strength to strength. I am thankful that my work is also my passion. I love creating content, whether it’s writing, speaking, hosting or painting — anything that allows me to use my creativity is where I thrive.
What does fashion mean to you?
Nixalina: Fashion to me is a form of self-expression. What you wear can tell a tale of who you are, while projecting your inner essence of being. Fashion is for your own self-appreciation. I think how we choose to dress is an important part of our day-to-day life. Fashion allows me to present my personality and playful nature, empowers me when I’m in need a little boost of confidence, and it’s how I make a statement that I am the unique being that I am — as we all are.
Do you have any favourite fashion icons?
Nixalina: Favourite fashion icons, no, but I do have a few favourites when it comes to designers. For handbags, I have always adored British designer Lulu Guinness. She has the most incredible back story and awesome iconic designs. I've met her in person, too, and she really is that lovely and fabulous as you think. For shoes, it is an easy win with Manolo Blahnik. They're my go-to these days. As for my clothes, I am not particularly loyal to anyone, but I adore Gucci, Fendi and D&G.
How would you describe your style, and how big a part does jewellery play in your every-day lifestyle?
Nixalina: I have two key styles that I seem to gravitate towards: “Haute Bohemian” and “Golden Era of Hollywood”. I simply adore vintage/pin-up styles with retro curled hair and red lipstick, but then I am also partial to loose wavy beach hair with feathers, beads and anything nature-related. I would say I am a maximalist — I always overdress. I also dress in a manner that complements my curves, too. I have always loved completing a look with accessories. I’d feel bare without jewellery. I have fun layering and mixing different thin-chain necklaces and adding a long pendant.
What inspired your collaboration with ByCanary and the designs in the collection?
Nixalina: I wanted to tap into my modern-boho signature style, particularly my attachment to feathers, but also create pieces that can go from beach to city seamlessly. The idea was also to cater to women like me, who often change up their styles and want pieces that are as versatile as they are. So when I set about designing a collection with ByCanary, we focused on pieces that can be worn in different ways, keeping in mind my style as I mentioned earlier and personal interest in Greek mythology. That's why the collections are named “Athena” and “Apollo”, with feather and sun motifs throughout. You’d always see me wearing an anklet and a hand chain, so my personal favourite piece is the feathered hand chain from the “Athena” collection.
"Fashion to me is a form of self-expression. What you wear can tell a tale of who you are, while projecting your inner essence of being."
What is the most important thing you look for when you’re shopping for jewellery?
Nixalina: I look for pieces that immediately catch my eye because they're unique and outstanding. I love gold and silver — in fact I enjoy layering them together against conventional fashion advice. I’d go for thin chains for necklaces to layer, or oversized statement pieces.
Can you offer a few tips on accessorising? For example, how would you style some of the pieces you’ve designed with ByCanary?
Nixalina: I am obsessed with stacking rings with my hand chain, so whether you opt for the feathered hand chain or diamond-only hand chain, wearing it on the same hand with the “Apollo” sun ring on the same finger is just stunning. But don't overdo it — you probably don't need any more jewellery on the same hand so you keep the focus on the key pieces. I also love layering chokers with long chains, so I'll be wearing my “Apollo” sun pendant as a choker and then a couple of plain diamond chains with it. As I have a penchant for anklets as I said, I'd also rock the feather necklace around my ankle.
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