Happy Wednesday! Today, I am very happy to introduce the absolutely gorgeous Alice Lee to you all in this week’s interview. Alice is incredibly stylish and has an amazing background – former FORD model turned lawyer who also owns more than 80 pairs of Louboutin heels. In short, the person whose bio and photograph I hope never appears directly next to mine in a yearbook. Ha! You’ll read more about her very interesting story below, and you’ll see that I couldn’t help asking some law school related questions as well.Alice was kind enough not only to answer all of my very in depth questions, but also had her very talented photographer friend Tony Yang take some photos for this interview, which are beautiful. Enjoy meeting Alice!
First things first – who are you? What do you do, and where do you live?
I am Alice Lee, an attorney in the New York/New Jersey area. I currently live in North Jersey but grew up in Queens New York, then moved to Long Island when I was in college. So, I am a Queens girl, turned Long Island girl, who is now an honorary Jersey Girl!
I know you’re a lawyer now but that it wasn’t always your path. Can you share some details about how you ended up where you are now?
My parents were immigrants from Taiwan and we moved to New York when I was 8 years old. We faced the typical challenges that immigrants faced: assimilation, learning the language, studying hard, trying to show our parents that their sacrifice was not in vain. While my mom was a perhaps stereotypical “tiger mom” (haha), she also paid a lot of attention to other aspects of my upbringing, such as style! She took me shopping, bought me my first fashion magazine, etc. She believed in beauty and brains.
When I was 16, she saw a poster for a spokesmodel contest in a local bakery, which was hosted by a Japanese cosmetic company called POLA Cosmetics. They were looking for a fresh face to be their spokesmodel. My mother saw the ad and thought it would be a good opportunity for me to learn about poise and stage presence and all things girly. Who knew going to the bakery would yield such information? Haha. She took several Polaroids of me and entered me into the contest.A couple of weeks later, I got a call, they liked my pictures! I was in complete disbelief. I was such a nerdy kid, who had just got her braces removed! I then had to go to New York’s Roosevelt Hotel for the 2nd round, which I passed. Then I competed in the Miss POLA pageant finals in Teaneck, New Jersey and I won the title of Miss POLA 1999. I was the first Chinese American to win the title.From that, I caught the attention of model scouts from FORD Models who said they had never seen an Asian girl that looked like me, LOL! My mother didn’t want me to model professionally, she wanted me to pursue higher education. I was able to persuade my mother into allowing me to model by making her a promise that I would never stop or even pause my education for modeling. This was back in 1999, and I kept my word. I went to college and law school full time while modeling.
Back then, the fashion industry had a very warped view of Asian beauty and what Asian girls “should” look like. My eyes and nose made me look “different” to these agents. They thought I was “interesting” so they signed me. I was the second Asian model to be a part of the Women’s Board at FORD Models New York. I then started to pick up a lot of commercial work because my look was appealing to American companies and advertisers. With the rise of China in the global market, the demand for Asian models grew. Also, the perception of what Asian women should look like also changed. That is progress- this change in perception of Asians. After several years with FORD, I left and signed with Wilhelmina, while attending law school at the same time. Once I was graduated law school, I officially ended my contract with Wilhelmina. It was the ending of one career, and the beginning of another.
I know that you have some thoughts about law school, and I have quite a few friends who are either in law school or practicing today. What would be your advice to somebody thinking of becoming a lawyer? And how important in your opinion are school rankings?
Many people think that rankings are important to secure jobs. In my own experience, your grades and your networking abilities are much more indicative of your success in this profession rather than your school name. Of course coming from a great school is a terrific resume booster and can open many many doors for you while you are in law school or when you are a recent grad. But, after those initial stages, you really need to work hard to distinguish yourself or else you will become disposable and there will always be more intelligent, younger law students from top schools every year, who can do your work for less! Lastly, and most importantly, law is a business. Networking is key, and never lose sight of that!
When I am not in the office, I love to have fun and be more expressive with my clothing. I would say I am definitely a girly girl. I love dresses, lace and ruffles. Yup, in that order! I also like to wear items that accentuate the waist line, I think it is feminine and sensual to show curves!
Dying my hair! I went through a phase of dying my hair light brown with highlights…I looked like a blonde! I don’t know what I was thinking! Natural is definitely much better. Live and learn.
What’s a splurge that you made that you were so excited about..that now you wish you hadn’t purchased?
All of my Balenciaga bags. I went through a Balenciaga bag phase and at one point I owned about nine of them. I have since sold them all.
What are some of your favorite, loved items in your closet? What about the most worn ones?
My 35cm Ebene Hermes Birkin is my workhorse. I live out of that bag and I carry it almost every single day. My Louboutin black Delics in the 120 mm are my workhorse shoes. I have this exact style in 3 pairs!
How do you decide what items pay full price for, vs. waiting for a sale?
I am not really good at waiting for sales because I don’t have that much free time, and also because my size is usually not available by sale time. I also realized that if I really really like something, then I should just buy it because if it is gone by the time I decide to purchase it, I would be miserable. Ugh!The good thing is, I don’t buy expensive clothing. The only expensive items I purchase are my bags and shoes. Most of my clothes are from common stores that are very reasonably priced. I think I am a true high and low mixed items girl. I enjoy carrying Birkins and wearing Louboutins while rocking H&M clothes!
Can you share a piece of advice on shopping and style that you’ve had to learn over the years? How about some life advice?
Don’t follow trends blindly. Find what works for your body type and stick to it! Sometimes trends can come back to haunt you, like with me and my blond hair!
As for life advice, protect your hopes and dreams. If you can dream it,you can do it. But you need to protect it and follow through with action. Action is the operative word. You will meet many negative people who want to discourage you because they never had the courage to go after their dreams so they want to drown you in their disappointment. Don’t let these naysayers get to you, don’t let others put you down. Surround yourself with positive people who will encourage and support you. Be humble and learn, but always protect your dreams!
What are some of your other hobbies and passions?
MUST LOVE DOGS! I love my two fur babies Princess Mia the Maltese, and Gemma Bean the long hair Chihuahua! I love dogs…I grew up with 2 Shih Tzus (Mimi and LuLu) and they MADE my childhood. I am an avid supporter of the AKC and the AMA (American Maltese Association). I go to dog shows (like the Westminster ) and dog conventions (like the AMA national). Both my girls are from very reputable show breeders so I go to shows to support my dogs’ breeders!
My other passion is service. I am BIG into community service and volunteerism. When I immigrated here, we relied a lot on the NYC Asian community to help us and I believe strongly in giving back to the community. I have always been involved in my Chinese American community since I was a child, from registering senior citizens to vote to being the MC for community events because I am fluent in Mandarin. Now, I volunteer as a legal counsel to Project by Project, a national non profit organization that raises money for charities which focuses on benefiting the Asian communities of need in the United States. I believe in building a stronger, more unified Asian American community so we can help and support one another in all aspects of life in the United States- politically, socially and economically.
And finally…please share something surprising about yourself!
I’m addicted to home work out DVDs! I am a big Denise Austin fan and love all her videos. Currently I am using Bethanny Franel’s Skinny Girl Yoga which I like because it’s three short work outs (15min-20min-15min) which I can squeeze in once a day. I like DVDs that dont scream or yell at you…challenging workouts that you can do daily because it’s short and realistic!I really loved hearing about Alice’s journey, and also her life advice – her words about following through on your dreams were very touching to me, and rang especially strong in light of her own personal story. I also loved hearing that Alice loves mixing H&M with expensive bags and shoes, as everything she wears look amazing on. Thank you Alice for sharing your story and opening up your life and beautiful style with us – you are an inspiration.
One of the best interviews yet & what an amazing shoe collection!
Happy Wednesday hun xoxo
http://www.intotheblonde.com/
Holy cow! Her Louboutins collection is to die for. She is absolutely stunning as well. I love all her outfits. Thanks for sharing the interview, Kat.
I am a Northern NJ girl myself. But a model turned attorney- great story.
Katherine, does Alice have a blog? I would love to follow her.
She is absolutely gorgeous. Wonderful collection of must-have Birkin colors, too! Beautiful tones in the photographs.
those loubs! oh my and her berkin's gorgeous
Alice is amazing!! AND she loves dogs! <3 <3 <3
*girl crush*
I really do think this is one of your best interviews! Such an inspiring story, and a great mix of brain and beauty!
http://www.xjole.com
Alice got the brain and beauty. Love the blue dress! Also, great insights on the law profession. If I can add to it is this: if anyone is considering to become an attorney, work in a law firm first before diving right into law school. That way, one can see what it is really like when working as a attorney.
gorgeous!! what a great interview! thanks kat!
omg the tower of louboutins! i think i just died!
Oh she is pretty and yes, so smart! Thanks for sharing it!
♥
I love this interview! I copied and pasted her wise words. "….protect your hopes and dreams. If you can dream it,you can do it. But you need to protect it and follow through with action." How true and incredibly insightful.
She has inspired me to give a lot more back which I haven't done so. Thank you for the wonderful interview.
I love this interview! I copied and pasted her wise words. "….protect your hopes and dreams. If you can dream it,you can do it. But you need to protect it and follow through with action." How true and incredibly insightful.
She has inspired me to give a lot more back which I haven't done so. Thank you for the wonderful interview.
i love that she has beauty & brains! another great interview
umm…and her loub collection!!! wow!
Looooooove the fact that she leads a balanced life and has so many dimension to her…plus her styling of professional clothing is so gorgeous!
<3 Cambria
jupefashion.blogspot.com
Enter my Shabby Apple GIVEAWAY!!!
I loved this interview. In fact, I love all of your interviews. You have such a talent for writing and an amazing sense of style to boot! Thank you for taking the time to share.
Katherine, Another great interview! Thanks for sharing her perspective. I too love to show creativity via shoes and accessories while my Ann Taylor/Talbots wardrobe allows me to retain a degree of professionalism in my office life.
Hi Kira! She doesn't but I'll definitely update if she decides to start one
Thank you for the advice! Makes sense to me
Mica! So glad to hear from you, and glad that you liked the interview
You know one of my current favorite bags is from Talbot's!
Oh thank you – I don't think you could have said anything nicer to me, that is such a great compliment..thank you again!!
great interview
now, THIS, is an amazing interview. when i grow up, i want to be her!
I am big fan of you blog, but never felt compelled to comment until now. Alice is such an inspiration. She is the epitome of well-rounded: intelligent, hardworking, beautiful, kind and stylish!
And since I'm commenting anyway, Katherine I think you are all of those things too. Your blog is one of my favorites!
Thank you! You are making me feel the warm and fuzzies lol!
Alice is an amazing role model for all young women looking to make their mark in a very competitive world. What a great interview, she is such an inspiration and down to earth!!!
I loved this interview
She is such a beautiful person inside and out 
katattack2000.wordpress.com
Great interview! I loved reading about her story and seeing parallels to my own (umm not the model to lawyer part though!) She is so grounded and lovely and I am so on the same style wavelength as her!
xoxo,
Chic 'n Cheap Living
I read a lot of personal style blogs. I have to say that this has been my favorite interview ever. Not only because Alice Lee seems to have it together, it's also because you asked the right interview questions. The interview was about more than just fashion. She should definitely have a blog that showcases her beauty, fashion sense, and brains.
Good job.
Classic beauty and brains. I love how hard-working she is and how she aspires for a more unified community and support network!
And good solid advice regarding law school. It really is an expensive investment and an incredibly competitive job market right now. Aspiring law students should be aware of the realities of the profession, and if they're determined, they should work hard and go for it.
cute outfits<3
grungegypsee.blogspot.co
Very very inspiring!! I love her stacks of shoe boxes
Another great interview!! She is obviously beautiful and smart and she gives you positive vibes if you know what I mean!! The photos she has taken are also great!! Thanks for sharing!!
Yes, I love to read inspiring interviews like these! Alice is a knockout and intelligent too. She's got it right with the networking. I tell everyone – friends, family, strangers at the doctor's office – you need to network! A family friend stopped by a year ago. Her daughter was plannning to attend Tulane U. and she asked me what classes she should take, etc. I said take what interests you, but NETWORK! Network your butt off.
I told my sister in law that when she got into Duke U. I told her to join a good sorority and network with people from the lower rungs to the high rungs!
Btw, I want Alice's Louie shoe collection!
Helen
Um. I know I'm going to look like a haterader…but there is something very wrong with her ebene / gold or black/silver birkins. The handles are warped in shape and even with TONS of use, the handles –at the very bottom where they are sewn on..should never go inwards together.
SOMEONE HAD TO SAY IT. Let me know if I'm wrong!
Great interview and elegant outfits!:)
Wow…just wow…I know who I'm coming back as in the next life.
She has great taste and she's so stylish! I loved reading her interview!
Amazing interview – Alice is definitely someone to look up to! Thanks for the interview, Katherine!
Wow! Another amazing interview! I love for your blog for this. Alice is a joy! It's always fantastic to see beautiful women with great taste who give back to the community. I am so happy she appreciates where she came from and gives back to community that helped her family once they came to the States. She is a true inspiration.
Thank You.
I typically love your interviews, but I have to say that I find this particular one somewhat misleading because although Alice states "don't go into law for money," I think her message is lost when she is shown with gobs of Louboutins and Birkins (In particular, the visual of boxes upon boxes of Louboutins leads the majority of readers to think law = money, which, ironically, undermines her message).
She does come from a well off family. She may just practice for the love of it
Hi J, I know you are just trying to be helpful, no haterade lol! Maybe the leather is clemence? My Bs are stiffer so I'm not too sure about how they become, maybe Alice can weigh in
Thank you for your feedback! And I'm glad you like the interviews! That confusion is probably my fault as I was just so curious about law school, especially reading all these recent articles about law schools being sued, etc.
I'd love to hear your opinion though about whether one should go into law for money? I hear both sides of the debates quite often and am always fascinated to hear the opinions of fellow lawyers
Wow, she is so inspiring! This interview is amazing! Alice's sense of style is incredible. Thank you for sharing!
xoxo
Meera
I understand your point, however, Alice's advice is something I've heard often in many other professions too and I take it to mean to go into a profession that you love rather than focusing on the end results of money. She does point out it is an expensive profession to invest in much like going through medical school. I believe Alice is very successful in her chosen profession and the Birkins and Louboutins perhaps ony serve to partly indicate that success.
Above is to A Fellow Lawyer, not Katherine
beautiful and very smart. animal lover and a to-die-for shoe collection *major girl crush*
great interview! would love to read more similar stories =)
beautiful outfits!
Love teh earrings in the second picture.
http://www.beautyfollower.blogspot.com
maybe alice meant not going into law thinking big bucks will start rolling in? that is the impression i got while reading the interview. in reality, majority of the lawyers or soon to be lawyers don't make six digits out of law school. this is the truth and many don't seem to realized it. don't forget alice did mentioned she had a modeling career and seem to be very successful with that profession.
Kat: I don't think that you caused any confusion, so no need to apologize. To answer your question, I do not think that you should go into law (or any profession, for that matter) for money. I think the fact is that a lot of people go into professions (doctor, lawyer, banker, among others) that don't resonate with who they are but afford them the lifestyle, security and social standing that they want. I don't think law is any different insofar as dissatisfaction, you just hear about it a lot more because law, as a profession, seems to be "sexed" up in the media. Again, my dislike of this particular interview has to do with the fact that the visual message seems to outweigh the verbal message that she's sending. I'm a very visual learner and, when I saw this, I thought "awesome, she must be a rainmaking partner at [insert name of big NY firm here]…what a great role model." But then I googled her and I saw that she is a third year associate and, well, let's just say that there is a disconnect between the reality of what I see (i.e. Birkins/Louboutins en masse), the reality of what third year associates make at even the biggest law firms, and the message that I'm reading. To put it in another way, what I see here seems to further perpetuate the notion that the profession of law = wealth and luxury (in other words, the same "sexed" up image that's portrayed in the media and that is so misleading to society at large).
I hope this clarifies my initial post. I understand that this ia a fashion blog above all else and that, if I want to read about law without a side of Birkin/Louboutin, I should go elsewhere. Thanks for reading and please know that no disrespect is meant to either Kat, Alice or any other readers.
She's gained a bit of weight…. looks better!
like her very much!
Thank you for such a thought out response! No disrespect at all taken, glad to know that I have such well educated readers
Once again, a true and honest interview, no matter what is said, she did well.
I did find the comments interesting and I appreciate a certain amount of reasoning, even if we're talking fashion. Keep up the good work, Kat
flower71
she is so inspiring! i'm also a nyc girl and i volunteered for project by project before too! i want to meet her and become her best friend! LOL
She really is an inspiration. THANK YOU so much for sharing this interview!!
xo, sam
I’m often to blogging and I actually respect your information. The article has actually peaks my interest. I am going to book mark your site and keep checking for brand spanking new information.
Does Alice have a blog? I would like to follow her. You are talent with all the interviews.
No she doesn’t…sorry!