We catch up with the never-far-from controversy Miss Universe Trinidad & Tobago 2008 contestant Anya Ayoung-Chee, minutes after unveiling her amazing collections (yes, there were two) at the ever-so-trendy Savannah Carlton boutique hotel, Trinidad. She’s effusive and in great spirits with a lot on her mind.

What are you sipping?

French 75 — A blend of Champagne, Gin and Cognac

Socialite or homebody?

Haha… I think you have figured that one out already… Maybe not socialite but definitely “social”!

Flats or stilettos?

Depends on the outfit… I love a pair of flats but can’t deny the feeling of confidence that heels give me, when the pairing is right.

What’s your must-have accessory?

My scapular that reminds me of my brother, who died three years ago. All my family and his friends wear it in his memory.

What’s your style?

Always evolving, depending on where I have been living or travelling to, or according to any major changes in my life. But right now it’s a mixture of boyish, edgy and a little bit grunge.

What’s in your handbag?

My sketchbooks, measuring tape, credit cards, make-up, magazine tears, sunglasses.

What perfume are you splashing?

L’eau D’Issey (during the day) and Gucci Rush at night.

Who does your hair?

I do.

Who does your nails?

Haha… no-one, as you can probably tell..

When you’re not working, where’s the best place to find you?

At Meiling’s or at the Carlton Savannah.

What’s in your car stereo/iPod?

Lots of dancehall and lots of conscious (music).

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

One that feels effortless and organic, and we both laugh throughout.

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

Hmmm. He doesn’t actually exist! But the perfect man is the one whose imperfections remain perfect in my eyes.

What projects are you working on?

Pilar, my ready-to-wear women’s line; Anya de Rogue, my lingerie line; an interior design project on a home in Trinidad; various presenter projects for events and TV, including a hosting gig in Tokyo coming up later in the year. And my continued work as spokesperson and creative consultant for the arts based charity, the Tall Man Foundation.

Who or what inspires you?

People who don’t try to look fashionable but are instinctively stylish.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

From my brother who told me that it is possible to experience heaven on earth, once you open your heart and mind to it.

And Anya 10 years from now?

I’d love to be a creative consultant in a range of design fields. I love having my hand in many projects that have different approaches and applications. I think oftentimes one project informs the other in interesting and unpredictable ways, and keeps my mind acute and always searching for solutions. The latter is my favourite aspect of being a designer.