In 2020, then Ngee Ann Polytechnic business student Jermaine Ho started Plop Apparels as an online store to share her love for vintage clothing. Flash forward to July this year, the fashion gig has grown beyond the virtual realm for the 23-year-old, who has manifested her business acumen into a fashion and lifestyle entreprise that operates from a double-storey shophouse located at 17 Haji Lane. Plop sits on the second floor while the cafe Sooner Or Later occupies the ground level.
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While the fashion store boasts – and has become a haunt for its primarily Gen Z customers – a roster of Y2K-perfect, utilitarian staples like vintage cargo pants, it also stocks small independent labels such as British designer Stephanie Liasis, who is known for her cropped tops made out of deadstock fabrics.
The industrial decor of the Plop Apparels was conceptualised by Jermaine Ho – including the glass-covered changing room that takes pride of place in the middle of the store.
With its industrial-leaning interiors, the retail space is an inviting and comfortable atmosphere to peruse garments and above all, aims to foster a community with a shared love for vintage and clothing from niche labels. You might spot a small selection of original Plop Apparels-branded merchandise like a body-con jersey minidress printed with prints of woman’s face among the racks of clothes here.
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Designed by Ho herself, she reveals that a full-fledged fashion line will be the next step for the business. Despite having no formal training in fashion, she learnt how to sew – like most things we pick up today – through YouTube tutorials.
Below, FEMALE speaks to the intrepid fashion entrepreneur about Plop Apparels’ humble beginnings, upcoming events, and her favourite items in the store right now.