After retiring a decade ago, fashion design icon Thomas Wee has returned – and Charlene Fang has the story

So, why did you retire? 
Oh, I have so many reasons…but mainly because I just did not want to die by my pattern table. 

And you’re showing at the Singapore Fashion Festival 2008 because… 
Maybe it’s an ego thing but maybe because the last few years, whenever I’ve seen a fashion show here, and afterwards someone asks me what I think of it, my honest reply is, ‘It’s like sex with no orgasm.’ I’ve seen everything before. What’s new? Ask yourself which designer [in Singapore] can you think of who has a certain signature style?

In your opinion, what’s the cardinal sin committed most often by designers? 
The one thing I always tell my students is, ‘Do you think your customers walk against the wall?’ Too many times they design with just the front in mind; they forget that thereis a back, too. Why not keep the front simple so it does not interfere with the beauty of the model’s face, and instead include a back detail as an element of surprise?

Is there a Singaporean designer you like and feel has talent? 
Sven Tan. He is very creative and has strong technical skills and a good understanding of pattern-making. But I think he could be a little stifl ed designing under the alldressedup label. It’s not his signature style, not the type of clothes he would want to do. 

What is the one piece of advice you would dispense to all aspiring fashion designers? 
If you love fashion, you must build up the passion. Fashion is without boundaries so you always have to move on. You must live in current times, if not in fast-forward mode.