Many Singaporeans were bursting with pride when they saw BLACKPINK’s Jennie rep Charles & Keith’s Chelsea boots during the group’s performance at Coachella 2023. But they’re not the only homegrown brand reaching international audiences these days. From K-pop artists to Gen Z TikTokers, Singapore’s local fashion lines are being spotlighted by people of interest from all walks of life for their diverse styles and unique designs. Below, we break down some of Singapore’s buzziest celebrity-approved brands as of late.
1.Her Velvet Vase
Her Velvet Vase launched in 2007 and has since grown rapidly with stores across Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia. The label is known for their signature floral prints, maxi and midi dresses as well as their functional yet classy work ‘fits. Singaporean model and up-and-coming Instagram fashion influencer Natalia has been caught repping the brand.
Target audience: They have classy pieces for both work and brunch which are well-suited for the summer heat.
2.AVVE Clothing
Ranging from edgy to more approachable pieces, AVVE Clothing creates luxury-inspired designs that create a sexy and flattering silhouette. They prioritise sustainability in choosing to manufacture fewer, higher-quality clothes. Even international model Aimee Bradshaw loves how flattering the fits are.
Target audience: Their edgy formal pieces work well for a night out with friends or a date night.
3.ABARA
ABARA‘s first store in Ngee Ann City opened in May and features bags for young women as well as an older, more mature office-going crowd. A unique feature of the brand is its bespoke nature. Customers can customise the style, colour, lining and leather finish of their bag as well as emboss their name on it. The brand also emphasises sustainability through their restoration service which repairs, restores and cleans your ABARA bag professionally.
Target audience: ABARA makes classy everyday bags to carry your basic necessities, making it a perfect, long-lasting gift for any woman in your life.
4.r y e
Started in 2016, rye offers timeless classic pieces that are stylish yet comfortable for everyday use during the summer. The brand’s activism places the stories of people first. They actively support the Pride movement, and also raise awareness about issues like sexual violence and assault. Former Asia’s Next Top Model participant and professional model Layla Ong often reps the brand’s outfits.
Target audience: The brand manufactures a diverse range of clothe, from boxy, menswear-inspired fits to slim-fitting pieces made for every body type.
5.Beyond The Vines
Crazy Rich Asians actress Constance Lau was caught sporting Beyond The Vines while in Seoul. The brand went viral for their dumpling bags back in 2021 and have recently gained popularity for their new poofy bags. First established in 2015, this multidisciplinary design studio based in Singapore works with creatives and designers to create unique products that keep up with contemporary culture.
Target audience: For the trend-enthusiast who prefers a more youthful everyday look.
6. From there on
Previously known as Runway Bandits, from there on reinvents everyday staples with versatile products. Their monochromatic pastel shades are suitable for multiple occasions. As the brand states on their website, “let us be a part of your life with thoughtfully designed pieces that will be with you from there on.”
Target audience: Their timeless pieces are perfect for pairing with vibrant accessories.
7.The Authority
The Authority focuses on menswear pieces that are functional, minimalist and made of high-quality fabrics. Their in-house designed clothes are meant to last beyond fashion trends or seasons and embrace the wearer’s individuality. The brand also works with local artists and designers like Leslie Png, a freelance stylist and photographer, to create unique and flattering fits.
Occasion/ Target Audience: Their pieces are perfectly suited for everyday wear in Singapore’s hot summer. There aren’t many to choose from, which means you won’t have a hard time making a decision!
8.Benjamin Barker
While many may have seen Benjamin Barker at the mall, little did you know they carry casual clothes, as well. Their Utility Cargo Pants, as seen on Wah!Banana’s Benzo, look just as classy as their suits. As a bespoke brand, they focus on developing and exploring different fabrics with modern details to embrace their customer’s personality and individuality.
Target audience: For a classic and timeless suit (or business formal for the office), this brand is sure to make you look like a character from The Kingsman films.
9.The Editor’s Market
Looking for a fashion-forward yet understated outfit? Look no further than The Editor’s Market. The brand carries pieces that are classy, effortless and well-priced. With multiple stores across the country, this brand offers essentials that embrace the minimalist aesthetic. They even use lower-impact fabrics in many of their clothes in their effort to be sustainable.
Target audience: Perfect for those looking to start a capsule wardrobe.
10.Young Hungry Free
Singaporean influencer and comedian Ee Chiou Huey wears this brand’s piece in her Father’s Day post. Young Hungry Free started as a brand that aimed to go against current stereotypes in the local fashion scene. Focused on creating more edgy and style-conscious pieces, they cater to the fashionista who wants to stand out.
Target audience: If you’re looking for something outside the norm or a unique Instagrammable piece, this brand might just be the right choice for you.
11.Our Second Nature
Content creator Tricia Gosingtian wears Our Second Nature, so why don’t you? Each collection tells a story though prints designed in-house. Their Mini Nature and Men’s lines feature prints from their Women’s line to create cute pieces for the whole family to mix and match.
Target audience: Perfect for the family visits during Chinese New Year.
12.Sects Shop
Inspired by the Chinese concept of yin & yang, the brand carries urban streetwear and avant-garde designs. Sects Shop is the only multi-brand street goth store in Singapore, which carries the DEPRESSION label alongside international designers like Rick Owens. The brand breaks away from mass-produced and mainstream styles to push customers out of their comfort zone.
Target audience: While their entire store is perfect for those who prefer a goth or avant-garde look, their shoes are a definite must-have.
13.Youths In Balaclava
Local singer Alfred Sun channeled bad boy energy with his Youths In Balaclava outfit. The underground fashion label has a bold and resolute take on fashion design. They have presented collections at Paris Fashion Week and have collaborated with big names like G-Shock and Casio. With an international fanbase, this young and vibrant brand is not for the faint of heart.
Target audience: For those interested in experimental pieces to upgrade their wardrobe.
14.PLAYHOOD
Popular with Gen Zs and even Korean-based American rapper, Jay Park, this brand is a definite must-have. PLAYHOOD is a unisex label which designs streetwear with their unique flower motif. Their pieces are fun and wearable artworks featuring ’90s-inspired knitwear, trendy layering pieces and jackets hand-painted by founder Sarah Lai.
Target audience: Their pieces are perfect for a comfortable college student look or a picnic outing with friends.
15.Modparade
Fernnice Wong, founder of Modparade, launched the brand in 2007 as a means to fund her university tuition fees, but the brand has since grown into something much bigger. What makes them stand out is their collection of prints that are geometric and vibrant. What’s more, they design pet-inspired and pet-specific pieces so you can match with your furry friends.
Target audience: Their unique patterns would look great on a summer vacation by the pool, at a concert with your friends, or even on a night out at the club.
16.Good Addition
Andrea Chong and Joan Chang started Good Additions in 2022 and the brand has since grown to include a wide variety of elevated and buildable basics. Andrea designs all the pieces with great intention. Peruse through the brand’s online store and one can see the unique cuts and necklines that she focuses on.
Target audience: Their clothes offer a renewed look on minimalist pieces with unusual clothes and fun bags that channel understated IKEA energy.
