Imagine a “you” without fear…A version of your highest self that most people rarely see. So often we are focused on how others view us that we hold back or suppress how we truly see ourselves when no one else is looking. Enter fashion model, designer and stylist — Ana Tanaka —who brought this fearless identity into reality. In this exclusive editorial photographed by cutting edge photographer, Rex Yu, Tanaka showcased what she considers her alter egos. The confident stylist and model has been using fashion as an outlet to bring into life a no longer hidden representation of herself.

Beginning her modeling career in London at the young age of fifteen, it was a very organic transfer into the realm of creative direction and styling. “Fashion has always been my No.1 passion and the drive behind what I love doing,” beams Tanaka. “Whether I am in front or behind the camera, to me, as long as fashion is involved, I am in heaven!”

“I love the idea of playing out my alter egos,” Tanaka tells us. “Dressing up as characters and pushing the boundaries with fashion has been a huge passion of mine since I was five years old. For this shoot I wanted to create something more edgy and just have fun and I knew Rex was perfect for this with his timeless, classic photography skills.” What emerged from this dynamic partnership, was an eclectic interlace of posh vintage meets lavish grunge featuring gorgeous select pieces from Chanel, Dior, Burberry and Gucci. “The only thing I’d like to say about the shoot,” shares Rex, “is that we really wanted to go with a very high end style studio shoot that focused a lot on lighting, as well as different aspects of fashion that was very modern yet seemed a bit timeless.”

BE EXTRA - BE SEXY - BE DARING.

Jacket: Burberry | Boots: Sophia Webster

“For photoshoots I like to be much more adventurous than styling a personal wardrobe,” states Tanaka. “My aesthetic is always with a little sprinkle of extra. I love bold colors, interesting structures and textures, and I'm a sucker for bold prints… and always SEXY!  I love for myself and other women I am working with to become whoever they want to be. Fashion is a way to express yourself and be any of your alter egos.” 

Departing our conversation with true self-confidence and ease, Tanaka leaves us with these words, “I would say be fearless — do what YOU love. You don't need to follow rules or fashion trends. Learn what works for you and your body type and experiment to find your personal taste, have fun. This is why I love vintage shopping so much — you have way more creative freedom.” — Ana Tanaka