At ELLE Singapore, we're all about championing women, but this February, we're showing some love to the guys of Singapore. For the hottest men of the moment (literally and figuratively), they're carving their own paths when it comes to life, work, and love. From content creators and music producers to models, chefs, and actors, these are the heartthrobs of the Lion City.
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An absolute gentleman with beauty and brains? Look no further than Singaporean model Rian Thakrar. An emerging face on the fashion scene, the 20-year-old gave modelling a shot while pursuing his degree in business management in the United Kingdom, and has never looked back. Balancing university, his internship, and a blossoming career in Singapore and London, Rian sat down with ELLE Singapore to talk about his pet peeves, ideal qualities in a partner, skinny jeans, and his most successful pickup line.
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What are your most admirable traits or features?
I would say my positive outlook on life—I try to be optimistic and find the good in the bad in everything—, my empathy, and my desire for better and positive representation of Indian models and influencers in the creative industry.
What are your three most attractive traits?
My personality, humour, and eyebrows—I really like my eyebrows!
What is your most unattractive trait?
I get bored easily. I'm always on the move and if something doesn’t work or isn't clicking, I move on to the next.
What are you most proud of?
I have Tourette’s—something only my close friends and family know. I’ve had them since I was 12 after a pretty difficult period in my family’s life. It’s unnoticeable now, but it's taken a lot of work both physically and mentally. However, it is funny when the directors get it on camera when I’m on set and nervous—we all do laugh about it. Who knows? Maybe you’ll see ‘Ticcing in Tom Ford’ in the next decade.
What's something embarrassing about yourself?
Sometimes, I snort when I laugh. It’s mortifying—if it happens, just pretend you didn’t hear it.
What do you think women notice first when they meet you?
They notice I like to put in effort in the way I look. They’re also not sure what my sexuality is. Either way, it’s a win-win!
What's your most complimented body part?
I’d say my legs as I’m quite tall.
If you had to choose an animal that you are most like, what would it be and why?
A white Bengali tiger. They're a symbol of individualism and greatness—I think that’s beautiful and almost aspirational.
What are your hobbies?
I used to be a competitive gymnast and horse-rider, but now I’m into long-distance running.
What's your most successful pickup line?
"Wow, you look really familiar! How have you been?” 2025 is about keeping people on their toes and it results in the perfect mix of confusion and intrigue.
What is something you look for in an ideal partner?
It has to be someone you can’t get enough of. Real love where you still get butterflies when you’re with them—no filters, no facades, comfortable in union.
What's the most romantic thing that you've ever done?
I once ran 10k to deliver flowers to my girlfriend during lockdown—adhering to the law, of course—‘cause I missed her.
What are your three pet peeves?
Slow walkers, anything orange—sorry, I don’t why I just can’t with orange, and a lack of hygiene.
What's your biggest turn-off?
Oh, absolutely arrogance.
After the first date, how long do you wait before calling or texting?
An hour or two after.
Your partner brings you home to meet the parents for the first time. How would you impress them?
I'd walk in with a big smile, sharply dress with a small gift, give a compliment, and simply listen and learn.
Describe the perfect first date.
I’d always propose dinner and drinks or even a picnic. You can chat over a glass of wine—if things click, the night flows effortlessly.
If you had to write a short profile about yourself for a dating app, what would it say?
Skinny jeans aren't and will not be back before our generation is long gone.
*The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Photographed by JAYA KHIDIR
Styled by JEFFREY YAN
Producer NAVIN PILLAY
Hairstylist GREGO using Keune Haircosmetics
Make-up Artist WEE MING using NARS
Photographer’s Assistant NOWO KASTURI
Stylist’s Assistant VALECIA LEE