Penshoppe made the big announcement on Twitter: “THIS IS NOT A DRILL: @zaynmalik is back on #TeamPenshoppe!”

The brand unveiled its Spring/Summer campaign featuring Zayn Malik earlier this month, to the delight of his many fans. The campaign was shot by photographer Nabil Elderkin.

The now solo artist first joined Team Penshoppe back in 2012 along with the rest of One Direction. We met Zayn during their campaign shoot for Penshoppe in London. Zayn told us then, “We realized on Twitter that we have quite a big following in the Philippines and that we got a lot of fans there so we thought it would be cool to do something that the fans in the Philippines will see.”

Penshoppe brand director Jeff Bascon said, “We’re excited to have Zayn back in the Penshoppe family. Working with Zayn was just amazing. To have him back in Penshoppe is really special. We wanted the shoot to feel natural and that the look and feel will embody his sense of style. His stylist Jason Rembert made the collaboration so easy. It was one of my favorite shoots, so easy and fun.”

Super caught up with Zayn in this e-mail interview and talked about his music, his tattoos and all things fashion.

You were a Penshoppe ambassador back when you were with One Direction, what made you say yes again to Penshoppe?

I really like the brand and what Penshoppe is about in terms of clothing.

In the past you said that you guys said yes to Penshoppe as a way to get closer to your fans in the Philippines, how is your relationship with your Filipino fans? Do you feel their presence strongly on social media?

Absolutely, the fans are amazing, I read all of the messages and comments they leave… and I love the fan art! Can’t wait to see them soon.

How was the shoot?

The shoot was really fun, I loved putting the looks together and it all felt very natural to me.

Which pieces from the collection did you like the most?

I think my favourite pieces are the yellow jumper and the ripped jeans—but I also love the pairing of the mustard jacket with the orange striped shirt.

Congratulations on winning GQ Best Dressed for a second year in a row. How would you describe your sense of style?

Thank you. They have shown me so much support. My sense of style is very natural to me, I love clothes which have a little edge to them too.

How much has it changed over the years and what has changed about it?

When I was a teenager, the trends at the time in Bradford were very sportswear heavy and I think there’s a degree of that style which has stayed with me, and I have always tried new things.

What would you consider your wardrobe essentials?

Classic black boots and a cool leather jacket.

Is there anything you wouldn’t wear?

Never say never…

What has been your most surreal/unforgettable/favorite fashion moment?

Going to the Met Gala with Versace in metal arms was a lot of fun.

How’s the new album coming along?

I am so buzzing for my new music, I’m so excited for people to hear it. I think some elements of the music will surprise people although it’s all a very clear evolution of my sound from Mind of Mine.

What inspires your music?

It’s hard to pinpoint an exact inspiration as I feel like the most random thing can spark a melody or idea for a track.

How has going solo changed your creative process?

I’m in control of my sound, so everything is more true to me as an individual.

You’ve worked with Sia, Taylor Swift and Timbaland—who else do you want to collaborate with?

There are a few people who I am working with on this album, which I’ll keep a secret for now.

What else can fans expect from you?

I’m excited to play with this album visually and make some killer videos.

You told us before that you are passionate about art—is it still something that’s important to you? Do you still have time to paint and draw?

Absolutely, it’s important for me to take the time to be creative every day and I love doing it.

Which of your tattoos are your favorite and why?

My favorite changes every day, but right now I am loving my new chakra tattoos.

Who are your favorite tattoo artists?

I’m working with Megan Massacre a lot at the moment, she’s really dope, really talented.

Are you still gardening a lot?

Yes, I love it!

What else are you passionate about?

My friends and family are hugely important to me, I wouldn’t be here without them.

What causes do you feel strongly about?

There are so many, but I have to say that the common thread of them all is justice. No one should be disrespected, undervalued or underappreciated in our world. We have to stand up for one another.

What else are you busy with now?

My music is consuming my life at the moment and I am so grateful that I get to do this every day.

How do you relax? What do you do for fun?

The studio is my haven. Making and playing music is everything to me and I spend my days and nights in the studio.

What are the five things you can’t live without?

Music, family, friends, art, fans.

Do you ever Google yourself?

I don’t. But I do read the messages and comments from my fans on social media, their support and feedback is sick.

What else do you want to do that you haven’t done before?

I want to learn how to play the saxophone this year.

What’s the best thing about the Zquad?

Zquad is so creative, I love seeing the drawings, covers, poems and songs which they write.