CHECK MY STYLE: NOEL ZAHRA
This 26-year-old has a creative mind and an interest in design of all kinds as well as fashion and photography. With a laid back approach to our questions, Noel stood out from the rest of the 'Check My Style' crowd so far.
We began our chat by asking Noel to describe his style. “I just wear what makes me feel comfortable and confident. I have a very addictive nature, so if I like something, I won’t get over it easily,” he replied, thoughtfully.
“Lately I’m finding myself wearing more and more black – to an obsessive degree. I have a pair of black trousers that I wear practically everyday, and I never liked black clothes before I bought them. I used to think black was impractical in Malta, because it can be so hot. Since then, all items that I’ve added to my wardrobe are black,” he added.
We wanted to know when he began to appreciate fashion.
“Growing up I had a varied mess of a wardrobe. I have a twin brother, so when I was young it was important for me to look different to him. Not particularly better, but different.
“My interest in fashion increased when I moved to Florence as a design student, and even more after I met my girlfriend Lara Marie. She is totally obsessed with clothes and is constantly working on, and chatting about, clothes and style.
This brought us to our next question; did he consciously develop a non-mainstream style?
“Probably not – but I’m sure the need to differentiate myself from my brother played a rather important part.”
A lot of the men who have featured in ‘Check My Style’ have expressed that personal style is what helps them communicate who they are to the world. Noel had a more laid back answer to this question.
“Personal style doesn’t mean much to me. I grow my beard and don’t shave it. I grow my hair and cut it myself. I buy things I like and wear them.” Simple, really.
Noel’s feelings about current trends reflects his carefree approach.
“I hate trends. Some of my inspiration comes from catwalk images Lara Marie sends me. I don’t even know how to follow trends – I never got the concept.”
When it comes to doing shopping, Noel locally opts for flea markets and charity shops, as well as Zara and Pull & Bear. When abroad, he heads to H&M, and online it’s got to be Scotch & Soda.
As for negativity from others, Noel takes it all in his stride. “I don’t really care about their feedback, I just look like I’m listening to what they’re saying...”
As usual, we rounded off our chat with the question; have you ever had any embarrassing style moments?
“Not that I remember – but this interview may be close to one though…” (Thanks Noel – Ed).
Check out Noel’s website here. His girlfriend Lara Marie Boffa’s Youtube channel can be found here.
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