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You can’t say you love Singapore fashion and not know the name Peter Kor. It’s one name that would usually be brought up along with other great designers of the ’80s and ’90s like Thomas Wee, Celia Loe and Sylvia Lian .Call them our Miyakes, Kawakubos, et al of their day if you would.

The well-tailored pieces he designed under the Bianca label from the ’70s through to the ’90s, or the East-meets-West pieces under his Etsu by Peter Kor collection might have made it to your work wardrobe. Think demi-couture techniques like hand rolled piping and deftly draped garments done in plush materials like embroidered Chinese silks.

 

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After years of doing by-appointment orders at his 15 Purvis Street atelier, the veteran designer is ready to “relaunch” his label again. In summary, there would be an expanded breadth in its offerings, like workwear featuring tailored silhouettes in fabrics like washable and stretchable silks ($199-$499). The best bit: each piece comes in a limited run.

One line that comes just in time for the Lunar New Year is Kor’s Signature line. This custom-made service (from $799) features plush fabrics like French silk brocades, his signature couture finishings, and his contemporary take on cheongsams. Kor shares what to expect with this new update to his brand:

 

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Why did you decide to make the revamp this year?

“I feel fortunate to partner with new group of people (private equity firm Keppel Bay Partners) who share my values and passion of bringing great style and quality that is affordable for contemporary professional women. (My label exists in a world saturated with) fast fashion or luxury, so there is a clear need for distinctive styles that are accessible and can elevate a woman’s presence.”

What’s different about the Peter Kor brand then and now?

“We now offer a wider contemporary collection with stylish and accessible work wear options, day-to-evening dresses with limited or custom print and modern cheongsams. The collections are made locally, with great attention to quality and using natural fibres like cotton, linen and silk.”

How do you make your cheongsams modern?

“It’s about conveying the unexpected but keeping with the principal values of cheongsam making, i.e. the craft and the emotional aspect. A cheongsam can bring a great twist to your wardrobe and helps you stand out. Just treat it like a shift dress but pick an appropriate fabric for the occasion – for the boardroom or a dinner date.”

Like this? Shop for chinoiserie chic for Chinese New Year this year.