MADE IN Singapore

AS SINGAPORE'S FASHION INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO EVOLVE, WE SPEAK TO THREE HOMEGROWN BRANDS WHO REFLECT ON THE GROWTH AND INNOVATION THAT HAS DEVELOPED IN THE LOCAL SCENE

- JAMIE LEE

When thinking about the history of Singapore’s fashion scene, significant achievements and milestones don’t immediately come to mind. Yet, while there’s always room for improvement when it comes to nurturing the local creative community, it’s hard to deny that we have come far.

For example, Singapore held its first fashion week ever — an event usually limited to the four main fashion capitals — in 1986. In the 1980s and ’90s, veteran models like Hanis Hussey, Ethel Fong and Nora Ariffin were spotted on the runway and in international campaigns for brands like Armani, Saint Laurent and Chanel. Today, new-gen names like Kaci Beh, Kaigin Yong and Layla Ong have also walked the runway for big names like Gucci, Yohji Yamamoto and more.

Back home, we also have initiatives like #SGFASHIONNOW, a yearly exhibition by Asian Civilisations Museum that highlights local fashion designers. Homegrown multi-retail concepts like Spades, Plop Apparels and Design Orchard have also sprung up to promote local designers. There has also been a significant shift in our sartorial identity. A decade ago, blogshops, mostly owned by young Singaporean women looking for a side income, became widely popular for its affordable yet trendy fashion. Not only did they provide an alternative to major fast fashion retailers like Zara and H&M, they also created a new space for local brands to rise to prominence.