Tastemakers’ top picks at Blueprint
Given that it is, hands down, our favourite annual shopping event and fashion trade show, you just know that we couldn’t resist hitting Blueprint 2014. And this year, we even brought along some friends – tastemakers in the fashion industry, to share with us their top picks from the show and suss out the amazing design talents worth noting.
Lisa Crosswhite, founder and director of fashion e-retailer Gnossem
She chose: Rico Rinaldi from Malaysia
“I’ve been obsessively searching for the perfect tutu skirt, so when I saw photos of this Rico Rinaldi piece, it really stood out to me. The workmanship is amazing but more importantly, it’s flouncy and feminine yet edgy and strong. The whole collection may have a dark undertone to it but every piece is still very flattering. The label will definitely be on Gnossem soon.”
She chose: Georgine from Singapore
“I can’t help but appreciate the quality and workmanship of this label: the seams and the finishing are all beautiful and her designs are timeless. Georgine has a very distinct retro, throwback look but I love how you can put your own spin on it. For example, I’d pair one of her pieces with high-waisted skinny jeans for a modern take. In fact, I’ll be wearing a stunning Georgine outfit tonight at the Ashley Isham fashion show: it’s a high-waisted perforated foam skirt, paired with a cropped top made of suede and a structured blazer ”.
Ling Ling Goh, Designer at her own label, Ling Wu
She chose: pieces from the latest collection of her accessories label Ling Wu
“The two pieces I especially love from my latest collection are the Bubble bag and Alice clutch. I chose these them because I love patchwork and the interplay of different textures, which is why you’ll always find a combination of python and lambskin leather on Ling Wu accessories. The DNA of my brand is designing for the working woman and the clutch is such a versatile piece: you can bring it to work as a laptop case and use it later in the evening as a clutch”.
She chose: Carrie K. from Singapore
“Carrie’s designs are always understated and very clever. It’s only upon closer look you notice all the amazing details that go into it. For example, the label has a pair of earrings that may look like ordinary hoop earrings but they’re actually shaped like needles – genius. I’m also fond of organic designs that aren’t too perfect looking, like these bangles made of hammered metal.”
Kara Bensley-Austin, founder and director of fashion e-retailer theWYLDshop
She chose: Doris Q from Hong Kong
“I’m a big fan of young, emerging designers. And because Doris has had plenty of experience – presenting at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia and running her own boutique – she has really come into her own to create a sense of style that’s so innovative. The digital sequinned dress is an example of just how creative she is. I love this piece, even though it’s taller than me. I might have to get some gigantic heels to wear this!”
She chose: NIIN from Hong Kong
“What I love about NIIN is how ethical it is – everything is made in the Philippines using sustainable materials and through sustainable processes, with the end goal of giving back to the community there. Some of my favourite pieces are the Aurora Droplet Drusy ring and Nepura Endless clutch: it’s a timeless accessory made out of locally-sourced shell, driftwood, and brass, that you pass down from generation to generation.”
Blueprint Emporium (open to the public), 17 & 18 May 2014, Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City Singapore 039593.
