Mama (Audris' grandma) is 77 years old and the OG minimalist. She is the main person who influenced Audris to become a minimalist. More than a grandma, Audris sees mama as her best friend, inspiration and life coach.
Mama can hold conversations in English but for the sake of accuracy in hearing her, the interview was done in Mandarin and Cantonese. Most parts of her answers were translated by Audris.
Photographed and interviewed by Audris Adabella
Hi Mama! What would you like to say to your fans? More than 200 people voted that I should do a mini photo shoot with you.
M: What fans? *laughs* I don't have fans, but your friends are very kind. Tell them "thank you", they make me feel young and beautiful. I hope they like these pictures.
That's because YOU ARE. I was shocked that you pulled off the new designs so well. Can you tell us how many pieces of clothing you have in your wardrobe?
M: Under 40. I make sure I give away my pieces before I buy anything new. “旧的不去，新的不来” [A Chinese idiom that says; If the old doesn't go, the new will not come. You can't make progress by clinging to old notions.]
It’s easier to find what I want with no clutter. With lesser pieces, I can make decisions faster as well.
Tell us the colors in your wardrobe.
M: Mainly monochrome- black, white, grey and some navy. I have a yellow dress that I bought for CNY once. Just thought to be different that year.
How do you maintain beauty, you age so gracefully.
M: I don’t do anything in particular to "maintain". I actually just use water to wash my face and products my children or grandchildren buy for me. Like sunscreen and night cream. I am blessed, I am a child of God! I think prayers to God makes me glow.
What would you say to people in my generation? The 20s and 30s.
M: Hmm... Don't worry, be happy! If you are blessed, then eat more, pamper yourself more. If you lack, it's okay, you can still get by with a thankful heart every day. Most importantly, trust in the Lord, follow and pursue God.
Aww that's why I love you, you say the wisest things. What are your hobbies?
M: I like doing chores/ housework, making my house clean! When my house is clean I feel happy. I don't believe in hoarding, it gives me a headache. Nobody takes their possession with them to the grave anyway! I always say when there is space to move, there is space to breathe and think. A nice clean space helps me to feel relaxed. That also means I enjoy spring cleaning, as in throwing things out.
I enjoy shopping too. Window shopping to be exact. It's nice to be under the A/C since Singapore is so hot. I only buy things I really like or need, even if they are slightly pricey. If it adds value to my life or if it makes me happy, it's worth it! For things that are not of use to me, even if they were freely given to me... no thanks.
So mama, does THE ICED LATTE spark joy?
M: What do you mean?
Okay, nevermind. Do you like wearing THE ICED LATTE?
M: I will have to say yes right? Okay, but seriously, you will be happy to hear... I quite like it! I haven't worn anything sleeveless in about 20 years now. For the first time in a long time, after trying this, I felt like I did not care about this insecurity (arms). I like it! It's comfortable. Do you think it's a little long for me?
(For reference, Mama is 153cm tall.)
It is slightly longer than intended, but you look great in it with heels. Very sleek!
M: Okay, then I'll have this piece.
Sure! Thank you, Mama!