Who says Singapore doesn’t have style? Not us. We pulled together 15 homegrown brands to create our own fashion shoot featuring two of the country’s top models... #supportlocal all the way!
Besides its plethora of amazing food and cool, independent multi-brands stores to shop in, Singapore is also known for its multiculturalism. The kaleidoscope of cultures in this modern city is reflected in its people and the products they produce. Take a look at products by designers like Soon Lee, Onlewo and Amado Gudek, alongside larger brands Charles & Keith, Carrie K and Depression. These Singapore brands have elements of both modern and traditional Singapore combined in their designs, as well as great ‘wearability’ and very affordable prices. To celebrate all things Singapore this month, we found 15 Singapore brands to showcase with two of our favourite Singapore models – Diya (@diya_prabhakar) and Bryan (@br.an). Proudly wearing your very own piece of Singapore style is the perfect way to celebrate the birth of the nation, right?
In Good Company menswear is great for the office or the weekend
The designers of popular, successful and super stylish Singapore fashion brand In Good Company, Kane Tan and Sven Tan, have a clever strategy – forgo the typical seasonal dictates of the fashion industry, and focus instead on creating capsule collections of wardrobe essentials that every woman, and now every man, needs. The brand launched in 2013 with a defined aesthetic of sophisticated, modernist silhouettes, which are tailored to Singapore’s weather. The brand launched its menswear pieces just recently, and has rapidly found a following among guys who like simple but not-boring pants, shirts and jackets that are great for both the office and the weekend.
In Good Company, ION Orchard,#B1-06, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801, p. 6509 4786. Open daily 1030am-930pm
ORSQ is Singapore’s very own sneaker brand
A product of Singaporean entrepreneur-designer Orsqr, ORSQ is a contemporary shoe label that focuses on the latest sneaker trends. ORSQ’s sneakers are highly sought after in Singapore; just check out the massive queues at its launches on its Instagram page! ORSQ’s signature white slip-on shoes are not only easy to wear, but match well with all sorts of outfits – which is perfect if you’re looking for athleisure-footwear with both comfort and versatility!
ORSQ, available online, and at The Authority.
The Soon Lee x Onlewo dress
This carefully curated, multi-brand concept store offers a limited amount of ready-to-buy products, as well as items that are made-to-order. Though based in Singapore, Soon Lee has ties in other parts of Southeast Asia, which influence its collection of products. The brand’s fashion must-haves include a range of affordable everyday wear such as dresses, bags and jewellery, including exclusives from its collaborations with other brands such as Onlewo, another Singapore design collective that produces amazing fabric prints inspired by Singapore’s HDB buildings, traditional metal window grills and other historical prints. Specialising in homewares, Onlewo has also recently branched out into fashion pieces featuring their prints, like this dress above in collaboration with Soon Lee, and some fun, printed shirts.
Soon Lee<, available online, and at Onlewo.
On Diya: Drop-waist, high-low dress ($179) from the Dancing Kueh Collection by Soon Lee X Onlewo, and white Virgin Moonwalker slip-on shoes by ORSQ.
On Bryan: Hiro stretch, cotton poplin shirt in charcoal ($139) and Jacob Japanese denim cropped bermudas ($169) by In Good Company, as well as white Virgin Moonwalker slip-on shoes by ORSQ.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore & @br.an from NOW Model Management
Onlewo showcases all things Singapore
There’s no denying that Onlewo is indeed a Singapore brand. The lifestyle brand collaborates with Singapore-based designers to produce a collection of bespoke home decor and wares such as wallpaper, table runners and upholstery that are inspired by the heritage, places and cultures of Singapore. Add Onlewo’s button-down shirt to your wardrobe as a reminder of our vibrant city, or spruce up your living spaces with its attractive Peranakan tile square cushion covers!
Onlewo, 129 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208847, p. 9112 4685. Open Tue-Sat 11am-6pm.
On Bryan: Asian-inspired printed shirt by Onlewo. Safety pin rings ($118 each) from the Reborn collection, and leather bracelet ($198) from the Leather collection, all by Carrie K.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @br.an from NOW Model Management
The Authority is for guys & girls
Launched in 2015, The Authority is a Singapore menswear label designed for guys who are looking for easy style that’s not too mass market but without a hefty price tag. With uncomplicated cuts, unfussy lines and typically in monochrome colours. The Authority look is a mix of Korean street style and Singaporean’s love of very simple outfits. The current athleisure and oversize trends also mean that the girls are just as interested in these simple casual pieces, especially the neat shorts and soft oversized tops and tees like those featured on Diya in the photo.
The Authority, #03-03 orchardgateway, 218 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238851, p. 8126 6343.
Amado Gudek jewellery is eco-friendly
Eco warriors, sustainable jewellery is actually a thing – just look to Singapore brand Amado Gudek. All the brand’s pieces are crafted using environmentally-friendly bioresin, which contains bio-based renewable materials and UV properties to prevent it from yellowing. The best part? Everything resembles wearable art. We’ve got our eyes on the Diamond Fauxever collection and the unique Drift Away collection made with driftwood.
Amado Gudek, Chancerlodge complex, 105 Sims Avenue, #10-07, Singapore 387429, by appointment only, e. [email protected]
On Diya: 2-panel pullover ($59) and side zip shorts ($39) by The Authority. Reflections bangle by Amado Gudek.
On Bryan: Linen clean shirt in soft pink ($69) and grey linen pants ($59) by The Authority.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore & @br.an from NOW Model Management
Depression isn’t really that sad (when it comes to fashion at least)
Depression is a Singapore fashion brand that’s been around for just about 10 years, believe it or not. The founders Kenny Lim and Andrew Low created the brand after finding themselves ‘depressed’ with their ordinary day jobs, and also not able to find affordable versions of the Japanese-inspired street wear trends they loved so much. Starting with a small store in Far East Plaza, the brand now has its own multi-label store Sects Shop in Orchard Gateway that stocks the main line Depression, the streetwear label Not Cool Enough and the sub brand Antidepression (bright and colourful tees) alongside some of the coolest Korean, Japanese and other emerging streetwear brands from around the world. The brands have been worn by lots of Singaporean and Asian celebs as well as international stars like Adam Lambert and The Black Eyed Peas too. We pulled out some pieces from Depression and Not Cool Enough to show you that you can wear the ‘street goth’ athleisure trend in Singapore without looking like you should be in Tokyo. Depression is still mainly a unisex brand but there are more and more feminine pieces that can be worn by more girly-girls too, like the dress Diya is wearing above. For the guys who like looking cutting-edge but casual, this is the brand to go for.
Depression, Orchard Gateway, 277 Orchard Road, #04-14, Singapore 238858
On Diya: Knee-length dress by Depression.
On Bryan: Ambush cropped shirt ($269), Dragon vs Tiger shorts PU ($299), platform sandals ($99) and numeric knee-high socks ($35) by Depression.
On Bryan: Platform sandals ($99), numeric knee-high socks ($35), and oversized, Skull Warrior hoodie ($129) by Depression.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore & @br.an from NOW Model Management
Klarra is perfect for your office outfit
With its sophisticated yet utilitarian designs that showcase classic silhouettes and attention to detail, it’s no surprise that Klarra is a firm favourite with Singapore’s discerning fashionistas. After all, the label is chock-full of sartorial stunners that make the perfect additions to your work wardrobe: from chic one-piece jumpsuits to tailored trousers, and relaxed maxi dresses, to a range of work-friendly pieces from diffusion line FRONTROW By Klarra.
Klarra, #02-15, Capitol Piazza, 13 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178905. Klarra is also available at Robinsons The Heeren and Robinsons Raffles City.
On Diya: V-neck tailored dress in pink ($109) from Klarra’s Frontrow by Klarra collection. Stone buckle slingbag in ocean ($59.90) by Charles & Keith.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Model: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
Aijek is unapologetically feminine
It’s hard not to notice Aijek: refreshingly and unapologetically feminine, this label is a breath of fresh air among the plethora of labels in Singapore’s fashion scene. Designer Danelle Woo seems to know exactly what women want: easy, effortless, and elegant pieces that translate from work to the weekend. Besides, who wouldn’t be charmed by sartorial stunners like a lace maxi dress, a monochromatic bustier top or a two-piece denim suit?
Aijek, available at Society A, TANGS Orchard, Soon Lee, Sarah B, Trixilini, and Nana & Bird.
On Diya: The lacey Paldova bell sleeve dress in coral almond by Aijek.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Model: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
Biro has plenty of good vibes
Singaporean shoppers are big fans of simple, hot-weather friendly outfits, and homegrown label, Biro, caters well to the Singapore market. Biro’s basic menswear collection is based on a minimalist approach of simple designs that are comfortable and easy to style without looking plain. Its quality tops, bottoms and outers are made from premium materials and are carefully tailored by artisans in Japan. Like a lot of casual menswear these days, Biro is as easily worn by girls as guys. The soft athleisure and casual cuts of sportswear pants and tops look just as cool on women as they do on men.
Biro, Level 3, Kitchener Complex, 809 French Road, Singapore 200809
On Diya: S9 pullover ($160) and drawstring denim trousers ($270) by Biro. Galaxy embellished clutch with strap by Charles & Keith.
On Bryan: Waffle knit top ($295) and indigo cuff pants ($230) by Biro.
On Bryan: Vibing tee ($90) and a light, striped shirt ($220) by Biro.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore & @br.an from NOW Model Management
Charles & Keith is actually from Singapore
Started as a fashionable footwear label tailoring to Asian women specifically, Charles & Keith has now blossomed into a mega shoe brand internationally. It’s an accessories wonderland that not only offers stylish shoes, but also accessories, costume jewellery and bags of all styles, including both simple and experimental designs. Both international and Asian shoppers will be thoroughly spoilt for choice with the wide range of on-trend yet affordable shoes, bags and accessories Charles & Keith offers.
Charles & Keith, available at various locations including 313@somerset and ION Orchard.
On Diya: Ankle boots in burgundy by Charles & Keith, stool by Onlewo.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Model: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
Ling Wu is luxury leather in your hand
Mention the name Ling Wu and images of luxury handbags immediately come to mind. The label’s collection of luxe bags and accessories is absolutely to-die-for – we’re talking cool clutches, stunning satchels, and très chic totes in butter-soft leather and exotic skins. Want understated luxury? This is it.
Ling Wu, 43 Jalan Merah Saga, #02-78, Singapore 278115; Also available at Robinsons Orchard, and TANGS Plaza.
On Diya: Missy clutch in red ($525) by Ling Wu, and knee-length dress by Depression.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Model: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
Carrie K is Singapore’s best jewellery brand, hands down
Time to sweep all your conventional notions of jewellery out the door; jewellery can be fun, tongue-in-cheek, and (dare we say it) rule-breaking – if these baubles bear the name Carrie K. The brainchild of Singapore artisan, Carolyn Kan, this handcrafted jewellery brand is strikingly conceptual with an avant-garde take on rings, bib necklaces, cuff bracelets, and earrings that make them perfectly wearable and covetable pieces for years to come.
Carrie K, National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road #02-03, Singapore 188969.
On Diya: Safety pin rings ($118 each) from the Reborn collection, and leather bracelet ($198) from the Leather collection, both by Carrie K. Bubble mini clutch with light pink motif ($505) by Ling Wu.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
Revolte is a wardrobe must-have for modern fashionistas
Launched in 2010, Singapore fashion brand, Revolte, offers a wide selection of quality dresses, tops, bottoms, outers and accessories for both men and women. This designer fashion label pays close attention to intricate detailing, as well as classic, tailored and structural pieces. Walk into shops, parties or work with effortless style when you wear an outfit from Revolte. It’s no wonder that this edgy, contemporary fashion label is a top pick for Singapore fashionistas.
Revolte, #02-438, Suntec City 3, Temasek Boulevard, p. 6238 6265
On Diya: Double pleated jumpsuit in burnt orange ($179) by Revolte, and pointed-toe, ankle boots by Charles & Keith.
Creative Director: @ini_niki_b
Stylist: @cammkay
Hair & Makeup: @shashamsi
Photographer: @darissaaa
Models: @diya_prabhakar from Looque Singapore
