Margreth Romone, also known as Maggie, isn’t afraid to experiment with her look. The aspiring singer encourages all young women to be who they are and not be afraid to wear what they want.

Name
Margreth Romone
Age
18
Occupation
I am a waitress and bartender at The Lookout (at Oceanview Apartments, the old ‘Menzies’), which just re-opened in June last month.
I left school in year 10 because we couldn’t afford school fees. Last year I took a short course at Central Primary School. It was an employability course that taught customer service, financial literacy and computer skills.
My dream is to become a singer. I am inspired by Celine Dion, Beyonce and Jessica mauboy.
Where are you from?
I am half Malekula and half Emau. I am the eldest of my family – I have four younger sisters and one younger brother.
How would you describe your style?
I’m not really sure how to describe my style. I like wearing makeup and accessorizing my outfits with matching jewelry. If I’m going to a party, I will usually wear a dress. I am comfortable wearing anything and I always make an effort to look nice.
Where do you buy your clothes from?
I buy my clothes from Stret Price, Stanley Imports and other second-hand clothes. I buy my jewelry from the Chinese shops.
Who influences your style?
I love Rihanna and Beyonce’s style. When I see photos of them when I’m browsing the Internet, I get inspired by what they are wearing.
What beauty products do you use?
A woman from Ambae does my hair extensions. I usually wear hair extensions for only one month, then I will take them out. Then I‘ll make sure my hair is shampooed and natural for at least three days before wearing hair extensions again. I won’t use African Best or any other products in my hair. I also never use lotion, only coconut oil for my skin.
I buy my makeup from the Drug Store pharmacy but some of my makeup is also from Israel. My mum works with an Israeli NGO and I was lucky enough to get some from her friend.
Any fashion advice?
My fashion advice to all girls is do not be afraid to wear what you want. Some people, especially men, will discourage you and tell you not to wear certain clothes, but don’t listen to them. It’s your body and you can wear what you want.
Don’t be afraid to be who you are and express yourself. When people tell me I’m showing off with my clothes or will make negative comments, it makes me feel even more proud of who I am. If they want to discourage me, that is their problem, not mine. I am dressing up for me and I really don’t care what anyone says. It’s my life, not theirs.
Photography: Nicky Kuautonga
Hair, nails and makeup: Vanuatu Spa
This article was originally published in the July edition of the Vanuatu Daily Post’s Life and Style magazine.