#1: Eclectic swimwear
K.Blu founder Lyn Rosmarin’s direction for her label (main photo): luxurious swimwear and resort wear governed by an Asian design philosophy. True to form, her latest Mu.Lan collection is inspired by a heroine in Chinese folklore.
“We seek inspiration from our sunny island,” she says, “and are passionate about working with other local creatives to bring out Singapore design.”
#2: Fashion-forward timepieces
HyperGrand’s founder Leroy Xavier Zhong (above) is a mechanical-and-aerospace-engineer-turned-watch-designer; his designs are classic, yet boast innovative touches such as the world’s first graphic-art-printed NATO strap.
“Singapore as a young country relies on innovation to thrive,” he says. “HyperGrand’s strength lies in solving problems through innovation.”
#3: Bespoke shoes for men
Donovan Leow (above), who calls himself ‘Your shoe guy’, is behind CustomMade and believes that bespoke full-grain cowhide leather shoes with Italian soles should be an affordable luxury.
“Our mission,” he shares, “is to simplify and personalise the shoe-shopping experience for men.”
#4: Exotic arm candy
Goh Ling Ling’s (above) luxury bag label, Ling Wu, boasts timeless pieces made with butter-soft leather and hand-polished python skin. These are investment pieces inspired by Asian heritage, yet totally contemporary in style and made with certified, ethically sourced skins.
“My brand incorporates the multicultural aspect of Singapore by combining the Asian influences that surround us,” she says.
#5: Storytelling jewellery pieces
From bespoke elegance to playful irreverence, Carolyn Kan’s (above) Carrie K collections are handmade using traditional methods with top quality materials. Her latest Reborn collection throws the spotlight on mundane everyday objects such as pins, nails and paper clips. The humble safety pin inspired a ring design.
“The safety pin has, in recent times, become the symbol for openness and diversity, which in many ways is reflective of our Singapore culture,” Kan says.
#6: Bespoke menswear
Kevin Seah (above) has been customising the wardrobes of dapper men in Singapore (and beyond) since he was but 17 years old. His tailor-made range includes suits, shirts, ties and even pocket squares. Fabrics are sourced from premier English and Italian mills, and each garment is finished by hand such as the hand-stitched buttonholes, and fully picked stitched seams.
“Similar to how Singapore strives to build strong relationships with other nations, we work closely with like-minded artisans from around the world to innovate and better our craft,” says Seah.
#7: Effortless, ready-to-wear womenswear
Aijek, by self-taught designer Danelle Woo (above), has been a firm fixture at big-ticket fashion showcases in Singapore and beyond. Woo’s collections comprise delicate lace mini dresses, flowy silks and multi-function outfits – all now signature looks. Her styles are enduring, transcend seasons and are made with fabrics designed to age gracefully.
“Combining my Singapore upbringing and an international perspective on fashion, I design for the cosmopolitan time-starved everyday woman who loves timeless and beautifully made pieces that simplify their lives,” she says.
#8: Traditional bookbinding and leather craftsmanship
Bynd Artisan’s band of veteran leather and paper craftsmen bring to the brand over 100 years of shared experience in bookbinding and leather works. Bynd’s founding company, Grandluxe, is the oldest bookbinding and paper press in the country. Brand founders Winnie Chan and James Quan (above) have made the traditional craft of bespoke notebooks, ultra cool and very hip. It is no surprise that Bynd Artisan has won accolades like the President’s Design Award (2016). Perhaps the only brand to put Singapore’s traditional crafts and craftsmen on the map, the are clearly going places.
“Bynd Artisan strives to take local creations to the global stage and continue its pursuit of rejuvenating the traditional paper and leather industry,” says Chan.
This story first appeared on www.silverkris.com
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