Corridor40

Willabelle Ong may be new to the fashion blogosphere, but this stylish teen is no amateur when it comes to capturing her casual, romantic style on her blog, Pale Division. Launched earlier this year, Pale Division is a platform for Willabelle to share her musings on everyday life, her current fashion obsessions and her distinct, fresh fashion sense with the world. Here, Willabelle reveals her future fashion aspirations (watch out, Anna!) and her weakness for all things sugary-sweet.

C40. Tell me a little bit about yourself. How old are you? Where are you from?

WO. My name is Willabelle Ong, but a lot of people call me Willa. I’m turning 16 this August (how exciting!); I still have no idea what to do for my 16th [birthday], but I’m hoping it will be really special. I am originally from a tiny red dot called Singapore, but moved to Perth in December 2008. I am currently still in high school, but I would really love to be a fashion editor, stylist or designer when I grow up.

C40. Tell me about your personal style. How would you describe it? What is your take on current fashion trends?

WO. I’m not so sure how I should describe my style, as it varies a lot. I wear a lot of different things because I’m still trying out everything. I can be in an all-black ensemble one day, then—another day—I’ll go somewhere wearing a lot of color. I dress a tad boyish. I’m currently into monster wedges, and am lusting over a pair by Jeffrey Campbell called Clinic; they’re amazing! I think fashion trends can be really fresh, and it’s fine following them—but don’t let them overrule your personal style. You should always feel comfortable in what you wear—so you can jump around in them, if you get the urge!

C40. Are some of the clothes you model for your site made by you?

WO. Oh, no; I wish they were! Right now, I’m looking for a sewing machine so I can start making clothes; I think it would be really fun. I do have a visual diary full of designs, though—but they’re not that great. When I was younger, I wanted to be a fashion designer, but I’m not so sure anymore. Time will tell.

C40. Why did you decide to start a fashion blog?

WO. I decided to start blogging because I really wanted to see what people thought of my style, and to see how I can improvise. However, I also blog a lot about my personal life so I can always remember distinct events by looking back.

C40. What designers most inspire you? Do you have any fashion muses (i.e. models, designers, celebrities)?

WO. Alexander McQueen and Alexander Wang have been my greatest fashion influences, both for being extremely innovative with clothes. And my favorite models are Tao Okamoto and Agyness Deyn; they have really nice, eccentric styles and a lot of personality.

C40. What are three clothing items you couldn’t live without?

WO. A neutral-colored boyfriend blazer, an oversized white tank top and black opaque leggings.

C40. How does your current location influence the way you dress?

WO. When I lived in Singapore, the weather was insane; it was hot year-round. It seemed pointless dressing up when you’d perspire and pretty much melt in the heat. I’m so glad I’m living in a country that has four seasons; it allows me to dress up and layer a lot.

C40. Where do you see yourself in five years?

WO. I hope to see myself living in New York, interning for a reputable fashion magazine and meeting a lot of new people.

C40. What’s your biggest vice?

WO. Overeating, especially tasty things coated with sugar, marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles or lots of peanut butter.

Images via Pale Division