Fashion-loving folks looking to add some Singapore pizzazz to their closets or collection will be pleased to know that the city has a thriving local fashion scene brimming with a diverse range of local creative talents.
We shine the spotlight on 10 Singapore-based apparel, jewellery, shoe and bag labels.
APPAREL
Elohim by SabrinaGoh
www.sabrinagoh.com
Paragon, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Tangs at Tangs Plaza
Winner of the 2010 ELLE Awards Singapore Designer Of The Year, local designer Sabrina Goh draws inspiration from architectural forms to sculpt strong, yet sensuous silhouettes that celebrate confidence in the wearer from the inside out. Established in 2009, the label offers pieces that feature unexpected details that are a result of mixing elements of menswear and womenswear, as well as symmetry and asymmetry. From oversized tops and flattering dresses to comfy culottes and even a Star Wars collection, there’s a style to suit every shape and preference.
In Good Company
www.ingoodcompany.asia
ION Orchard, Jewel Changi Airport, Tangs at Tangs Plaza, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
The brand is helmed by tailoring whiz Sven Tan and master draper Kane Tan who create non-seasonal, well-made wardrobe essentials and reinvented classics that are defined by clean lines, precise tailoring and soft drape work in timeless silhouettes with clever detailing. Known for their astute technical know-how, the design duo, who won “Designer of the Year” at the 2016 Singapore Fashion Awards, have developed their own fabrics such as double-bonded cotton jersey that mimic wool-felt with the heat and weight; heat-bonded finishes for a refined crisp edge line; and hidden hand-finishing techniques in their accessories.
Love, Bonito
www.lovebonito.com/sg
313@somerset, Funan, Jem
The women’s fashion label started as an e-tailer almost 10 years ago before opening its first physical store at 313@somerset in 2017. The label designs stylish and comfortable pieces centred around the physique of modern Asian women to help boost their confidence by dressing well. Love, Bonito also offers styling workshops, in-store experiences, fun events and live streams to engage its customers, reaching out to more than 30,000 women over the years.
The Shirt Bar
www.the-shirt-bar.com
Funan, Isetan Scotts, Jewel Changi Airport, Metro Paragon, Suntec City, Tangs at Tangs Plaza, Tangs VivoCity, Wheelock Place
Frustrated with how big fashion brands exploit both the supply chain and customers, the menswear brand decided to fill the gap by producing its own extraordinary shirts, suits, blazers and pants that achieve a balance between price and value. It also chooses only to work with ethical factories despite higher production costs. Suits and blazers have unique features such as RFID-protected pockets, labels are cut with an ultrasonic laser so they don’t scratch wearers, while shirt collars feature German interlining for a structured, yet snug fit. There are also specially engineered shirts made with technologically advanced fabrics like Spill Resist which repels liquids. Each shirt also comes with a little message to inspire, motivate or bridge a relationship.
JEWELLERY
Carrie K.
www.carriekrocks.com
Funan, Gallery & Co. (National Gallery Singapore), National Design Centre, The Fullerton Shop (The Fullerton Hotel Singapore)
Started by Singaporean silversmith Carolyn Kan in 2009, the artisan-crafted jewellery label is known for its contemporary, playful and provocative designs that challenge traditional notions of what makes something precious and desired. Statement, classic and versatile pieces for men and women are handcrafted by artisans the old way with precious stones and metals like silver and gold. Bespoke services for wedding bands and rings are available. The label also offers an Heirloom Revival service where an old or inherited jade or diamond jewellery can be updated or reset into a modern, stylish and symbolic piece.
By Invite Only
www.byinviteonly.info
Wisma Atria & VivoCity
Photo: By Invite Only
Founded by self-taught jewellery crafter Trixie Khong, this 11-year-old homegrown brand carries jewellery pieces that are created “for every occasion, every invite”. Those with sensitive skin will be pleased to know that all By Invite Only pieces are free from nickel, lead or cadmium. Shop for anklets, bracelets, earrings, hair accessories, necklaces, rings and bridal pieces crafted with semi-precious stones, crystals and freshwater pearls in modern designs.
BAGS
Fabrix
www.madebyfabrix.com
B Store (#01-22/23 The Cathay)
Photo: Fabrix
Designer and self-confessed “tactile addict” Colin Chen brings unique hues and sensatory textures of various textiles together to craft bags and protective cases for gadgets that are stylish, functional and cleverly engineered. The label offers a variety of smartphone cases, pocket sleeves, laptop bags, folio cases, totes and snap cases in various sizes, colours and prints. Textiles featured include cotton, tweed, denim, canvas and faux leather.
Ling Wu
www.lingwu.sg
#02-78, 43 Jalan Merah Saga
Photo: Ling Wu
Founder Goh Ling Ling creates luxe bags made from ethically and sustainably sourced, hand-treated python and lamb skins that are functional and timeless yet beautiful, light, voluminous and supple. Bags are crafted in small workshops in limited numbers and boast exquisite stitching, buttery soft skins and unique designs accents. Inspired by Asia’s rich heritage, the bags sport a rich colour palette that include hues such as saffron, chilli, cinnamon, turmeric and star anise.
SHOES
Anothersole
sg.anothersole.com
Design Orchard, Gallery & Co (National Gallery Singapore), PaperMarket (Raffles City Shopping Centre), Tangs at Tangs Plaza, Tangs VivoCity
Photo: Anothersole
This homegrown footwear brand is known for its soft, comfortable and lightweight travel and walking shoes for women and kids. Made of high-quality, unlined leather on top of a rubber sole and breathable sports footbed, the shoes function almost like comfy sneakers but with the polish and style of a pair of oxfords. Committed to making a difference in the world, the Scandinavian-inspired label channels 10 percent of its revenue to feeding hungry children, building sustainable communities for them and supporting their future.
Ed Et Al Shoemakers
www.edetal.sg
120A Telok Ayer Street (Second floor)
Photo: Ed Et Al Shoemakers
Founded in 2010 by Hungary-trained Singaporean shoemaker Edwin Neo, the men’s shoe label specialises in leather and suede dress shoes using leather sourced from tanneries in France and Italy. The label offers over 50 designs of oxfords, loafers, derby and boots, each pair skilfully made by master craftsmen in Vietnam. Besides bespoke and repair services, the label also offers a made-to-order service where shoes can be customised to the colour, size and width preference of the wearer.
