When it comes to Singapore’s fashion history, the noughties is fondly remembered for its experimentalism and the meteoric rise of local talents. M)phosis and Max.Tan defined the era, while designers like Jonathan Seow put the country on the map. But now that a new decade is upon us, is there a home-grown brand that embodies a similar, game-changing spirit? Enter newcomer, Michmika. Established by creative director Edison Wong in 2020, Michmika was born out of the aim to engage in contemporary conversations of individuality and sustainability.
The brand’s emergence is certainly a timely one. Ideas of gender, selfhood and sustainability have radically changed globally—all of which inform Wong’s design philosophy and operation. Envisioned as an alternative to luxury slow fashion, Michmika is one of the few local stores that adopts a made-to-order business model. Wong is also a strong proponent of redefining tailoring. At the top of his priorities is the conscious fabrication of clothes that challenge the masculine-feminine binary.
Every collection considers the question: how can classic tailoring become something that is forward-thinking and dynamic? The versatility of design is evident in Michmika’s latest collection, Special Capsule 2022, which consists of 12 looks with 19 styles. Titled ‘I’ve hundreds of things to tell you’, the line takes inspiration from the letters that were exchanged between philosophy power couple Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.
Reflecting the romance that unified the two is none other than the collection’s colour palette of black, white and pink. The contrasting shades saturate the best of Michmika pieces: a statement belted trench coat, a crystal bra top and a mesh-back blazer dress.
When asked what a Michmika wearer would look like, Wong envisions individuals who feel empowered and confident. In his perspective: “It’s the moment when one puts on a Michmika piece and they feel cool. A sense of style revolution when they look in the mirror.”
While Michmika’s vision of changing established rules within the fashion system is a long-drawn process, the brand believes momentum will turn into impact with every step taken in this direction. Apart from this, Michmika hopes to unite like-minded fashion enthusiasts who share an appreciation for innovative, quality garments. Collaborations with local creatives and film-makers bursting onto the scene is another prospect that excites Wong too.
Next on Michmika’s checklist? The debut of its first menswear line in its fourth collection. Wong’s goals don’t just stop there either. Come 2023, the designer has plans to expand the company’s team and develop a line of accessories. “With the brand’s growth, we don’t follow any rules,” explains Wong. “We create to ask questions and we are constantly driven by emotions. We always follow our instincts and what feels right at the moment.”
Marching to the beat of its own drum, Michmika is quite the bright young thing of the 2020s. And as with the spirit of the age, we’re excited to see how the maverick will push the envelope of Singapore fashion further.
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