Four homegrown labels

For nine years, this multi-label space has been our go-to one-stop shop for all things cool. Establishing its own brand came as a natural next step. Director Paul Khor and merchandiser Adrina Lee tell us about their new line.

Origin story ‘We’ve always been the type to take on challenges. Previously, it was sourcing for unique brands or bringing a new concept to each outlet we opened. It was time to step out of our comfort zone and take on a fresh challenge.’

The concept ‘The idea is to produce items for everyday use. We aim to offer basic necessities with great designs and details at an affordable price.’

Debut collection ‘We launched the debut collection for our ninth anniversary: nine different graphic prints on the passport cover and a set of three drawstring pouches.’

Favourite piece ‘The Drawstring Backpack. It’s the whole team’s favourite!’

Velda Tan, better known as the co-founder of blogshop-turned-empire Love, Bonito, sets off on a side project doing what she does best: creating contemporary womenswear at wallet-friendly prices.

Origin story ‘Having spent over eight years in fashion here, I realised there was a market for affordable luxury, for the modern woman.’

The concept ‘Our designs hinge on timeless silhouettes, which convey femininity and versatility. Travelling to new places, understanding different cultures, and being immersed in nature influence myself as a designer. We keep our aesthetics clean and simple to allow customers styling freedom.’

Debut collection ‘Through our Beyond the Borderline collection, we’d like women to own the style they think best represents their personalities.’

Favourite piece ‘The single-strap jumpsuit: a comfortable, figure-flattering piece that gives the illusion of longer legs. It’s the perfect work-to-play piece for me – wear it with a structured blazer for day meetings or go with a pair of statement earrings and stilettos for an evening affair.’

www.collatethelabel.com

From fashion merchandiser to polytechnic lecturer, self-taught designer Raine Chin adds another notch to her portfolio with her newly minted bags and accessories label – she tells us more.

Origin story ‘Loving fashion has always been an integral part of me. I’ve experimented with all sorts of makeup and fashion since kindergarten, but I had no background in sewing. What kept things going was the love I had.’

The concept ‘The label exists for one reason: to encourage people to embrace the passion and love for what they believe in.’

Debut collection ‘Each piece is inspired by everyday experiences. For example, the Desirette fringe sling clutch was curated out of the need to stand out in a crowd.’

Favourite piece ‘The Desirette in red wine. I was inspired to make this in the most unexpected manner: a heartbreak and abandonment in a foreign land, which led to amazing alone time and newfound independence.’

www.anastasiabyraine.co

Go back to basics with Faculty, founded by designer Larry Peh. He explains why his wardrobe staples refuse to succumb to fashion fickleness.

Origin story ‘Fabien Baron, the ex-creative director of Harper’s Bazaar, has always been an inspiration, and I’ve got more fashion magazines than design books! Coming up with a fashion line was a natural transition.’

The concept ‘We produce garments that are “seasonless”: they’re designed to co-exist with any style or wardrobe. We stay true to what men want, slightly tweaking basics with details to offer something fresh yet functional.’

Debut collection ‘Designed and packaged in grey, each item reflects the strength of ideas from the use of grey matter in its creation.’

Favourite piece ‘The Denim 15 Damaged. It has undergone approximately 100 treatments, from dying to sandpapering and ripping, to achieve the look.’

www.faculty.com.sg