Meet the Malaysian style alchemist
The Malaysian-born New Yorker, Aniz Azlan, had mastered the art of reinvention over the years—not just in fashion, but in life itself.
Nearly ten years had passed since she’d first stepped off the plane from Illinois, fresh from studying economics at the University of Illinois, but with fashion burning in her mind. Those early days were a blur of fabric rolls hauled across town, subway rides from Bushwick to Manhattan, and the intoxicating rhythm of a city that never slept. New York had become her greatest teacher, reshaping her with each passing season.
Today, she’s channelled her passion as a Senior Marketing Manager at Spinelli Kilcollin, a jewellery brand that felt like an extension of her aesthetic philosophy. But when the sun set, Aniz transforms into half of “AN:LIZ,” the DJ duo that commanded dance floors across the city. Music had always been her escape, whether she was crafting the perfect set or losing herself in someone else’s sonic landscape.
But, beyond that, she’s just a girl finding her footing with all the things she loves—fashion, food, music and fitness. We recently had a chat with Aniz about her life in New York City and how she discovered the style. Take a look below.
BAZAAR’s exclusive interview with Aniz Azlan:
How has your fashion evolved over the years? Has living in New York City influenced your personal aesthetic?
New York has encouraged me to explore my style—it’s been my biggest hype man. I’ve gone through so many phases—preppy, fast fashion, thrifting—and each stage taught me something different. Thrift stores were my first crash course in brand identity and self-expression. Then I spent years working with silks and sustainability, which shifted me toward more abstract, feminine silhouettes.
These days, my style leans masc-femme, with oversized layers and a DIY sensibility. I like to wear things in unexpected ways—ties as belts, skirts over pants, twisting shirts into something new. It’s about making pieces my own. This city encourages that kind of freedom. Being surrounded by people constantly experimenting makes it easier to push myself, to feel good stepping out in whatever I’ve put together.
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How do you balance showcasing high fashion with accessible, everyday style?
It’s easy because I only collect pieces that speak to me. Whether it’s high fashion or more accessible pieces, it’s about quality and also personal aesthetics—pieces that feel like me. I think the key is mixing them in a way that feels natural, and again, that feels fun—pairing a statement designer piece with something casual, or layering textures and metals so it tells a story that’s uniquely mine. It’s about creating a look that feels lived-in, approachable, but still elevated!
What’s your go-to jewellery piece?
Obviously, Spinelli Kilcollin. I have a daily stack: sterling silver rings on my left hand, yellow gold on my right. I also love my Petunia ring in sterling silver and chrome diopside—it’s bold, unique,and has a pop of colour.
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What’s one item in your wardrobe that you’ll cherish forever?
I honestly cherish so many pieces—it’s hard to choose just one. But my thrifted designer finds always stand out. There’s something magical about coming across a piece hidden on a rack, something that feels so me, fits perfectly, and feels like it was meant to be. That kind of discovery makes it unforgettable!
If I had to choose a non-thrifted piece, it would be from my bag and shoe collection. My denim R13 cowboy boots are extra meaningful because they were a gift from my partner. I’d been eyeing them for a while, and he surprised me with them for Christmas. They’re not just a dream piece I’ll wear for years, but also a reminder of that moment and the memories tied to them.
How do you stay inspired and avoid creative burnout in a city that never stops?
It happens, but I thrive in this flow. The energy here pushes me to try new things and achieve more. When I do feel burnt out, a short getaway works wonders—upstate New York for hikes and fresh air, or somewhere by the water, like an island. Being away from the city resets me.
More about Aniz Azlan:
What’s your go-to coffee spot?
I usually make coffee at home. But when I want a treat, there’s this Colombian cafe near me called Romeo & Juliet. Their coconut coffee is basically a frappe and an absolute indulgence! For matcha, I would do Kijitora or 12Matcha if I am in the area.
What’s your favourite date night?
I’m a foodie and love nice things, so a hard-to-get reservation at a top spot in SoHo might be basic, but I can’t resist it. Afterwards, we walk around, soak in the city and always end with a dessert!
What’s your favourite dessert spot?
I have the biggest sweet tooth. My ultimate weakness is Momofuku Milk Bar. I love their cereal milk soft serve with cornflakes and could easily finish a whole tub. Their cake bites and cakes are amazing too. And their cookies—especially the Compost Cookie—is next level. It’s got potato chips, graham crackers, and a bunch of other things!
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Sneakers or heels?
Heels!
Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds, always.
Gold, silver, or rose gold?
Gold and silver—I love mixing metals.
Minimalist or maximalist?
Maximalist all the way.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Honestly, binge-watching true crime shows is one of them. Also, making insanely detailed itineraries for trips. I can get a little obsessive with trip planning—Canva decks, completely pinned Google Maps lists, all of it with fun icons and emojis too.
What’s your love language?
Words of affirmation and gifts.
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What’s your favourite fashion brand right now?
Selezza London—love their playful tulle pieces and bold, maximalist styling.
What are you reading now?
To Paradise by Hanya Yanagihara.
What are you listening to now?
I have different playlists for different times of day. Weirdly, I’ve been into Grimes Dubstep at the gym. During the day, it’s Afro house or melodic house—current faves are Sehni by Deco (BE) and anything by Enamour. At night, when I’m cooking at home, it’s slower vibes like Salta by MITU.
