Meet Ong Bee Yan: The 65-Year-Old Model Leading A Grey Revolution
A quick glance at Ong Bee Yan – or Yan, as she breezily calls herself – and it wouldn’t be far misplaced to assume that the 65-year-old has long run the gamut of the modelling world. The truth, however, is that she was first scouted at the age of 63. Having uncharacteristically agreed to model a range of tie-dyed shirts, Ong’s seemingly inconsequential decision would go on to pave an unexpected path for the camera-shy grandmother of two.
“To me, models had to be tall and beautiful – neither of which I am,” she shares with a self-effacing laugh. Ong’s China Machado-esque features – delicate downturned nose, carven cheekbones and elfin eyes – as well as her imperturbably cool demeanour paint a contrary picture. Her (literal) crowning glory? A full head of blue-tinged silver hair: a hallmark that has catapulted women such as 59-year-old French model Yasmina Rossi and 55-year-old Canadian influencer Grece Genham into the realm of Instagram stardom. Ong seems to be on her way there. Her rapid-growing repertoire includes campaigns with a slew of local fashion brands as well as shoots with photographers-on-the-rise.
These days, the former Public Relations Account Director juggles at least one shoot a week on top of running a cold brew company, 1degreeC, with her husband, Richard. She also shares snippets of her life on her Instagram account, @grey_evolution, a means for her to inspire others who might feel debilitated instead of empowered by the idea of aging. From skincare for seniors to an age-inclusive fashion line, the entrepreneur fills us in on her plans for a grey (r)evolution.
What are some of your earliest memories of dabbling in fashion?
I’m the youngest of three siblings. As we were from a low-income family, my mother would sew my clothes – some of which were my own designs. These included home-dyed tank tops in various colours, big buckled belts with miniskirts and an ankle-length, printed voile vest. These were some of my favourite pieces.
It is said that most models stereotypically retire in their late twenties. You, on the other hand, landed your very first modelling job at 63. What has the experience been like for you?
I’m an introvert and camera-shy. Every shoot I do gives me the opportunity to overcome my fears and prove that one can teach an “old dog new tricks”. The experience has been awesome. I’ve met young, talented, caring and fun people. It challenges me to give my best at every gig (I’ve learnt a new word!). It also gives me the opportunity to use half of my earnings to support non-profit animal welfare and rescues alongside other causes that I am passionate about.
You’ve mentioned that letting your hair grey is one of the best decisions you’ve made. It’s also largely defined your look as a model. What made you finally do it?
Throughout my life, I’ve always set goals. My goal for 60 was to let my hair grey but I waited until 63 as I could not figure out how to maintain my hair so that it would be beautiful and shiny. I soon discovered that silver hair shampoo was the answer and decided that it was time to grow out the grey and embrace my age.
What was the incentive behind setting up @grey_evolution?
I started @grey_evolution to journal my activities with the objective of inspiring and empowering seniors to overcome their fears, get out of their comfort zones and embrace their age without letting it define who they are. It is also important for seniors to take care of their physical health through exercise and eating healthy and in moderation. I hope my journey and my story can accomplish that.
How would you describe your style?
My style is basic with interesting design elements – such as an oversized white long-sleeved shirt with hemlines that are short in the front and long at the back. I’m also a fan of looser silhouettes and androgynous clothing.
What’s next?
Many people tell me that there is a tinge of blue in my hair. To amplify this, I extract natural colour from blue pea flowers. This gives a soft blue tint without overpowering my silver hair. I hope to be able to develop this so others can use this as well. I’ve also realised that it is difficult to find clothes that are age-appropriate yet elegant and fashionable. I hope @grey_evolution can be a channel to showcase this – eventually expanding into makeup, skincare for seniors, exercise tips, healthy food as well as fun and interesting activities to participate in.
Photography Joel Low
Styling Gregory Woo
Hair Junz Loke using Kevin Murphy Singapore
Makeup Wee Ming using Laura Mercier
Photography Assistant Alfie Pan
Subject Ong Bee Yan in Tiffany & Co.
This article first appeared in the March 2021 issue of L'Officiel Singapore.
