SWEET TALK

Words: Nhlanhla Masemola | Interview: Gina Jeanz + Mousa Sow | Images: Instagram

It’s fervently said that opposites attract. Just going on their flawless outfits alone, we’d say that Gina Jeanz and Mousa Sow don’t subscribe to this age-old proverb. You see, the couple shares a comfortable sartorial language. Kind of tropical in the most seasonless way, they’re unafraid of embracing colour or the freshest prints. Honestly, we suspect that it’s not very hard for the duo to look stylish. They’ve been doing it for years. But something about the way their tones mesh together, the way their outfits sit oh-so comfortably, makes us curious about how their looks come to fruition or what exactly inspires them. Sure, we could have easily picked their brains individually but where’s the fun in that? If, like us, you’ve ever wondered what a conversation between two of your favourite fashionable people would look like, look no further. Gina and Mousa sat down with one another to talk all things style – honestly.

What would you say makes your style unique?

Being able to incorporate trends without feeling the pressure to keep up with being on-trend. I always mix and match new and old.

When would you say you really came into your own style?

When I started modelling, I really paid attention to how the stylist would select garments and put together a finished look. Before that, I’d just wear what felt good, but I learned to layer and add statement pieces to my wardrobe from them. I’d say at the age of 21 is when I really started to experiment with my style.

Who is your biggest inspiration in terms of style?

Rihanna, hands down. She’s been able to evolve her style in such a unique way. There’s arguably no fashion publisher that hasn’t featured her. She’s a trendsetter and it's because she’s so confident that she stands out.

What do you think people assume about you based on your style?

It varies. I do think people tend not to approach me when I wear heels – it’s something I’ve noticed over the years. But for the most part, I think I’m approachable when I have a more casual outfit on.

How important are brands to you?

To say I don’t pay attention to brands would be a lie. It could be a capsule collection by adidas or a designer collaboration. It’s not important to me to always shop branded items, but if I can afford them without breaking the bank, I’ll go for them. I’d say my closet consists of 10% branded items.

Is your confidence determined by your outfit?

Oh, definitely. When I wear heels I feel powerful, like I’m about my business. I won’t say I don’t feel like that in flats, but a great heel can make you feel like you’re really that girl.

What is something you would like to wear, but consider to be too far out there?

Any piece from the Comme des Garçons runway collections. I think I’d just have to muster the confidence to pull it off.

What is the one item in your closet that you can’t live without?

My hoodies. I would be extremely upset if I didn’t have them. They are so versatile and can be styled with so many things.

What are your three favourite statement pieces in your closet?

1. My brown leather biker jacket. Although the design is simple, the colour is unusual and makes it stand out.
2. The Senegalese shirt that I had made while travelling there. It always gets me a compliment.
3. My red blazer jacket. It's a beautiful red colour that stands out, but doesn’t scream at you.

Do you dress according to your mood?

On a subconscious level, yes. I notice that when I feel happier, I put more of an effort into my outfits. If I’m ever feeling down, I care less.

If you’re feeling uninspired, where do you look for inspiration?

Instagram. I have a saved collection called “Style” and all those posts are there so I can quickly browse through them and create my own version of something that I’ve seen.

Why do you think suits are important and what makes a good suit for you?

Suits are still a symbol of status. Even though many millionaires dress casually these days, well-tailored suits leave an impression. What makes a good suit is the fabric and cut. I like two-button suits with slim sleeves and without thick shoulder pads.

What is a fashion no-no when it comes to styling yourself?

Although I like skinny jeans, I really don’t like super-tight ones. I dislike the proportions it gives my legs. Generally, I don’t like anything that is too tight.

At what age did you start shopping for yourself and do you think you made good style choices?

I think around 13. I started getting into hip-hop music, started skating and wanted to follow those trends. According to my friends, I was super stylish, but looking back at the pictures now, I can see why my parents hated what I wore.