Stylist to the stars Kai Aiyub started out his career in his teens with big hopes of making it in the fashion world. He did just that and now boasts an impressive client list including Miranda Kerr, Ada Nicodemou, Matthew Fox, Laura Dundovic, Esther Anderson, Laura Csortan, Cheyanne Tozzi and his idol, Jessica Rowe. Twelve years later Kai is still bringing high voltage glamour to the masses.
Rescu. caught up with Kai to chat about spring/summer trends, what fashion tips to keep in mind for racing season and of course, all things glamorous.
RESCU: You have worked with many celebrities and are regarded as a fashion expert. What are the top 3 fashion mistakes women make in Racing Season?
Kai Aiyub: [Some women] don’t think about the rules of racing style: length of hems, sleeves on dresses or necklines.
Avoid fake tanning on the day or you risk becoming orange! Consider your headwear and don’t wear the w rong hat pieces with your dress.
Race season fashion is all about the overall look. Everything has to coordinate and work well together. Always opt for a polished look, never go boho!
The Kate Moss approach on the track is never a good idea! Instead think Princess Charlotte of Monaco or Princess Kate – the more refined the better!
RESCU: Warmer weather is heading our way. How can we look summery but still stylish?
Kai Aiyub: Don’t go loco on logo or monogram accessories. It actually looks quite cheap and many old school girls will have things to say.
It’s all bout fabric choices. Where fashion is today, you get expensive looking fabrics and styles on a budget. Make sure the seams or finishes don’t have threads hanging out.
Summer fabrics help you look (and feel) summery. [Opt for] chiffons, avoid satins and heavier silks – if you sweat, so will your dress.
RESCU: What are some on-season trends to add into our work wardrobes to bring us out of our fashion rut?
Kai Aiyub: A Simple black dress can be your life safer. If you’re a plus-size gal, jersey LBDs are your lifesavers. Make sure you invest in at least one LBD every season.
Avoid colored jeans unless you are 10-years-old. It’s really a youth-driven fad and will be over quicker than a Kardashian marriage!
It’s the season of separates! Suits sometimes look better when teamed with other separates. Blazers look good with dark denim jeans, heels and a French cuff shirt. Always tuck in your tops for a fitted silhouette.
RESCU: Which celebrities do trans-seasonal dressing best?
Kai Aiyub: Charlize Theron, Jessica Rowe, Laura Csortan and Laura Dundovic. They are always chic, beautiful and never caught looking unkempt. You can always tell by their hair and eyebrows.
RESCU: What should we ditch from last spring /summer and what can we wear again?
Kai Aiyub: Never again: maxi dresses, kaftans, velour (anything!), lame fabrics, sequined jackets
Wear again: Fur, leather jackets, shift dresses, embellished pieces, coats, boots – anything with a chain detail never dates!
RESCU: What’s your take on the maxi dress? OVER or still hot? How can we re-invent this wardrobe saviour?
Kai Aiyub: Over it and throw it out! Its over and looks so boring!
RESCU: What are the key trends for shoes and bags this spring and summer?
Kai Aiyub: Totes and espadrilles are always key summer accessories. And a good Oroton hobo handbag is always essential with a great pair of Jayson Brunsdon Heels.
RESCU: Which celebrity would you most like to make-over and why?
Kai Aiyub: The prime minister – those suits are from cira 1987 ! She can look so chic like our fabulous Governor General. However, Julia’s a separates girl more so and I think her approach to ‘slacks’ needs to be investigated by ASIO. Some pieces from Dior by Raf Simmons or Gucci would be ideal!
KAI’S BEAUTY BAG ESSENTIAL:
Tom Ford eyewear is the ultimate beauty must-have for the race track!
Fragrance: Ralph Lauren Romance
Lips: Mac Hey Sailor Lipstick in colour play
Cheeks: MAC creme Color base
Face: Bobbi Brown Long Wear Even Finish Foundation
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