Style at its zenith
BY GRACE CLARKE
Born and raised in the bustling heart of Bangkok to Indian parents from Darjeeling, West Bengal, Zenita Pakhrin, a 23-year-old freelancer, is a formidable force redefining the fashion scene. A graduate of Ekamai International School and Bunka Fashion School, Zenita’s journey is marked by a passion for languages and vibrant self-expression.
During high school, Zenita immersed themselves in Japanese, achieving a fluency that allows them to navigate seamlessly through Tokyo’s streets. This linguistic journey unlocked the door to the colourful world of cosplay, where Zenita frequently transforms into beloved anime characters, captivating the community at various events across Thailand. Cosplaying has allowed them to express themselves, explore different ways of character portrayal, and connect with many other wonderful individuals. Zenita is also part of the underground ballroom community in Thailand, a small yet growing scene that welcomes LGBTQIA+ individuals to celebrate their identities, rooted in unconditional support.
Masala recently had the pleasure of meeting up with Zenita at Rue de Mansri, a chic café nestled in the gritty core of old town. In this vibrant setting, we delved into Zenita’s sustainable closet and gained a first-hand look at their distinctive and edgy style.
How would you characterise your personal style?
I started exploring fashion when I was fifteen during a summer camp programme in Tokyo, Japan. I visited the famous Takeshita Street in Harajuku and the Shibuya 109 building, both which were the hub of the fashionistas. However, my style does often fluctuate depending on the occasion. For a photoshoot in Chinatown, expect me in edgy, street-style fashion. When attending a wedding or a significant gala dinner, you’ll find me in an oversized yet sophisticated blazer, blending elegance with bold statement-making. To pinpoint, I would say my personal style is very playful as I am always eager to try anything new!
What influenced you to embrace fashion and pursue the subject in higher education?
I must say, playing around with different styles and looks has always brought me profound joy. However, I owe much of my journey to my late classmate and dear friend, Pranit Balani. His unwavering support and gentle spirit encouraged me to embrace my truest self and pursue fashion. I dedicate this article to him and his kind, encouraging heart.
What influences shape your personal style?
Living in the tropical climate of Thailand, the weather plays a significant role in shaping my style choices, as it often gets quite heated here! Travelling to different countries and exploring areas like the vibrant Siam shopping district offers endless opportunities to observe emerging trends. Even random online ads from clothing stores on social media become sparks of inspiration, encouraging me to experiment with new styles.
Do you have any style icons who inspire you?
Three inspirations come to mind. Olli Hull, with his artistic flair in upcycled fashion, has profoundly influenced me. His creativity inspired me to paint and express my emotions through my thesis collection, fostering my love and respect for upcycling vintage clothes. I believe in giving garments a second life, imbuing them with new meaning.
Wisdom Kaye’s incredible styling skills are another source of inspiration. His ability to recreate high- fashion looks from anime or cartoon characters using existing wardrobe pieces taught me to innovate with what I already have.
Lastly, Billie Eilish’s chameleon-like style captivates me. She effortlessly transitions from oversized, baggy clothes, to elegant evening gowns and sharp blazers, proving she can rock any look with ease!
How would you describe your connection with fashion?
Fashion isn’t just wearing clothes. It’s what makes an individual unique as I’ve come to conclude. Society may say many things about one’s style choice, but ultimately it is your own body. Become the blank canvas you can paint anything upon, create the artworks you want to see, focus on what you really love.
As someone who identifies as non-binary, how does this aspect of your identity influence your personal style?
Being non-binary to me means there are no limits to what I am allowed to wear! I love being able to wear clothes as they are, without thinking about whether they present my overall look as masculine or feminine. Ultimately, I have complete freedom to present myself to the world however I choose.
What are the items you wear most frequently from your wardrobe, including both clothing and accessories?
When it comes to accessories, I prefer simplicity. However, my essential accessory is a silver ring, a symbol of self-commitment that has been pivotal in my journey towards self-love and healing. In terms of attire, I gravitate towards comfortable hoodies or classic dress shirts. Recently, I’ve developed a fondness for a pair of Y2K glasses that have become a staple in my everyday wardrobe.
