Makaira Lee has worked in the fashion industry for more than 11 years — originally starting with styling modeling agency test shoots while at university, before landing a managing role at an American Vintage store. That role, where she led shoots and content plus supported buying, became instrumental in her journey and, as she says, really “paved the way” for the career she’s built. Since then, she’s worked as the art director for Ruby, as well as YOUKNOW. clothing while working on campaigns as a stylist. FQ chatted to Lee about her ‘borrowed-from-the-boys’ aesthetic, what’s on heavy rotation, and the outfit that makes her feel most confident.
In conversation with Makaira Lee
My style is a bold mix of streetwear, unexpected layering and proportions, with a blend of masculine and feminine elements. My style has always been very ‘borrowed-from-the-boys’ — that was actually my first Tumblr name.
When I was younger, I thought to like or embrace a style I had to lean all the way in, so I went through a lot of different phases: boho, grunge, utilitarian, to name a few! I still appreciate all of these influences, but over time I’ve learned how to balance them. Now my style feels like an intuitive mix of all of it that genuinely reflects who I am. I think I’ve mastered the duality.
People often assume that being an art director/stylist is a glamorous job, but I am incredibly hands-on with my work — from sourcing pieces to building sets, and everything in between. As a result, my day-to-day style is rooted in practicality. I gravitate towards comfort and function — without compromising my aesthetic. I feel like these are pretty cliché but you can’t go wrong with a denim jacket, oversized blazer, the perfect pair of jeans, your favourite button-up shirt (mine is blue-and-white striped), the goes-with-everything belt, and a white ribbed tank top.
Lately, my extremely baggy denim jorts paired with boots have been on heavy rotation, and I am finding that no look feels quite complete without a belt. Some brands I love and am regularly checking are: Jacquemus, Christopher Esber, entire studios, Miu Miu, Paloma Wool, Aimé Leon Dore, and The Attico.
I try to invest in pieces that are high quality, versatile, and hold their value. They often come at a higher price point, but they also tend to have a lower environmental impact. A lot of my wardrobe is pre-loved or vintage. I also make room for pieces I fall in love with instantly — those gut-feel purchases you just need. They’re often the ones that end up defining your style and set you apart.
Without a doubt, a strapless bodice [is my signature piece]. It’s been a staple in my wardrobe for over ten years, and I layer it over pretty much everything. It has become such a signature look for me that people have coined it “Kai-core”.
For my 25th birthday, my now-husband (who I had only been dating for two years at the time) managed to thrift the bag of my dreams from France. It was a Dior saddle bag from the Rasta collection, released in 2004. It was my dream to own a piece from that iconic collection. I still have no idea how he pulled that off!
The oldest piece I own is a Gucci bezel watch that I inherited from my partner’s late grandmother. She purchased it in the late ’80s and it’s still in perfect condition with all the original interchangeable faces. The newest is the coolest camo/leopard patchwork jacket from the Japanese streetwear brand Fortune W.W.D.
My two wedding dresses [are my most treasured pieces]. The first was a Chanel-inspired two-piece made by my mother, and the second was my reception dress, which was The Mazzolu dress by Jacquemus.
Every day I come across new and exciting people to follow, but these accounts have been on my radar since I joined Instagram. Their style remains my favorite, so they’ve reached icon status for me: @livia, @gildaambrosio, @venedaacarter, @sierrarena, @oliviapezzente.
A lot of my style has been heavily influenced by ’90s fashion and pop culture. I grew up reading my mum’s Vogue magazines, tearing out those iconic Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell ads to Blu-Tack on my bedroom walls. I’ve watched the Sex and the City series countless times. But in particular, it was the musicians’ style from that era that I fell in love with. Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott, Pharrell, Aaliyah, TLC. There was a confidence and originality to the way they dressed that continues to shape how I approach my own style.
[To create a versatile wardrobe that seamlessly transitions between work and leisure] swap out your footwear. I always keep a pair of heels in the boot of my car because you never know where the day might take you. Shoes can completely change the vibe of an outfit. Another little trick I’ve been doing recently is popping a pair of pants or jeans under a dressier skirt or dress. I’ve been getting so much more wear out of my pieces by doing this.
For me, it’s less about following trends and more about what aligns with my style and is available. When something is trending, it naturally becomes more accessible and visible, so it sometimes filters into my wardrobe, but in all honesty if I am seeing something everywhere, I am less likely to want it.
I absolutely believe in investing in timeless pieces — they’re the backbone of any wardrobe. Some of my greatest investments have been quality outerwear — a great leather jacket, a vintage Yankees piece, an entire studios canvas bomber — these pieces are not only timeless but… the finishing touch that can effortlessly pull a look together and elevate it.
As much as I am a bit of a tomboy, I love getting really dressed up. I even love the lead-up — the process of finding the perfect outfit, planning the look. There’s something about slicking your hair back, putting on a smoky eye and a beautiful gown that makes me feel my most confident and sexy.
