Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Talor Fleet & Tim Han
Nicki Han knew she wanted to have a career in a creative industry from a young age. Now, she’s working in architecture and sharing her style with thousands of followers on TikTok. Han talked to NYOTA about New Zealand’s architecture, her wardrobe staples, and fashion as its own art form.
Growing up was your family very supportive of you exploring your interest in the arts?
My family always supported me when it came to my love for the arts. Growing up, my sister and I were both super creative and spent a lot of time drawing and painting. There are old family videos of us painting outside and making a big mess. It was something I always enjoyed doing for fun.
You studied architecture in school. When did you realize you had an interest in design?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to do something creative. Art classes were always my favorite in school, and that’s where I really shined. I’ve always loved focusing on the details and making things look nice, whether it was baking and decorating cakes or re-arranging and decorating my room. I used to spend hours (still do) looking up bedroom and interior design ideas on Pinterest. That’s what got me interested in interiors and eventually led me to apply for architecture school. My older sister, who also works in architecture, was a big inspiration. She always encouraged me to study architecture too, since it’s such a versatile degree that opens up a lot of creative and design opportunities.
Are you often inspired by New Zealand’s architecture? What type of building structures grab your attention?
I’m really inspired by New Zealand residential architecture. I love the relaxed, cozy feel of renovated villas that keep the heritage elements intact. The kind of buildings that catch my eye are those that really blend with their surroundings and make the most of the site. I appreciate it when architecture and nature come together in harmony. Aesthetically, I have a soft spot for the mid-century style and the use of timber and raw, natural materials in design.
Last year you started sharing #OOTD and fashion related content on TikTok. Do you see clothing and fashion as an art form?
I’ve always viewed clothing and fashion as a form of art. It’s a way to express ourselves and show how we’re feeling on any given day. Like art, fashion brings excitement with its colors, textures, and shapes, and it stirs up all sorts of emotions. It’s one of the best ways to truly express who we are, with no limits or boundaries.
When you’re choosing an outfit is it the colors or textures of a piece of clothing that you focus on the most?
I love mixing and matching colors, textures, and shapes in my outfits. If I feel like an outfit is missing something in terms of shape, I’ll add an interesting color or texture to balance it out, and vice versa. It’s all about finding the right balance and figuring out what works best for my body and makes me feel confident.
Could you see yourself pursuing a career in retail or styling or do you think architecture is where you want to stay?
Before starting my career in architecture, I worked part-time at Kowtow, a sustainable New Zealand fashion label, whilst studying at university. I loved helping customers find clothes that made them feel amazing. Seeing a customer leave with a big smile was always so rewarding. I’m definitely open to working in fashion again in the future, but preferably on the creative and design side of fashion. I’m not limiting myself to just architecture. My ultimate dream is to have my own business one day, whether it’s in fashion, architecture or design.
What are your wardrobe staples?
After years of playing around with fashion, I’ve realized that basics are the backbone of a great wardrobe. Once you’ve got your basics down—think a great pair of basic black trousers, a classic tee, maybe a versatile jacket—you can mix and match to create endless looks. It’s all about versatility and simplicity, making it easy to build multiple outfits without struggling. Once you’ve got a solid base, you can effortlessly layer and add in all those fun extras to really make your outfit pop.
Do you have advice for people who are trying to find their personal style?
My advice is simple: wear what brings you joy. Trends come and go, but your happiness and confidence is timeless. I’ve fallen into the trend trap too many times, chasing styles that didn’t really make me feel like me. Focus on finding silhouettes that flatter your body and make you feel amazing. Once you’ve nailed the basics, then you can dive into all the fun, colorful, textured stuff!
This story first ran in issue 36: The Art Is Life Issue. Read more from the issue here.
