What constitutes a legacy? The local sartorial story has always been rich—mixed and layered—all thanks to our multicultural make-up. And while Singapore’s fashion scene continues to evolve and shape itself anew, one thing remains true: its thoughtful preservation of heritage. One name deeply woven into this cultural fabric? Laichan Goh.
The self-taught designer built a name for himself through his mastery of the qipao. Under his eponymous label, Laichan became a renowned pillar of craft—a revered couturier who reimagined traditional pieces for the contemporary woman, gracefully marrying old with new. Tragically, Laichan passed away in April after a seven-year battle with brain cancer.
His story lives on through his brother, Eddie Goh. Reflecting on the deep impact of losing his brother, not just as a sibling, but as a creative partner who had been his rhythm for decades, Goh says: “Losing my brother has left a deep void in my heart and our shared creative world. We had worked quietly beside each other, through thick and thin, for several decades. I still feel his absence every day. But his love for his work, his brother and his label carries me forward. It is now left to me to uphold Laichan’s vision and values.”
Goh’s journey into the business was never an intended one. It was his brother’s passion that first drew him in. “I started by helping him, never imagining I’d become immersed in this extraordinary journey with him,” Goh recalls. “Over time, I found my own voice—particularly through embroidery. Today, fashion for me is both art and legacy, a way to carry forward something deeply personal and iconic.”
“Today, fashion for me is both art and legacy, a way to carry forward something deeply personal and iconic.”
The prominence of age in the industry isn’t often discussed, but it’s essential—especially when it comes to a visionary like Laichan. His years of expertise held more than just knowledge; they were a treasure chest of artistry, tied with a reverence for heritage. He was a beacon of inspiration for younger generations, carving out a path that has undoubtedly left an indelible mark.
Goh spotlights his brother’s unyielding dedication to quality. “He never cut corners, not even when no one would have noticed. Integrity and quiet humility in work and in relationships undergird everything he did.” That steadfast integrity is what set Laichan apart. “His legacy is more than just beautiful qipaos,” Goh shares. “His interpretations meld tradition with innovation and feel nostalgic yet relevant.” He now carries that same forward-thinking spirit, determined to uphold the craftsmanship and high standards that defined his brother’s work. “I will protect this legacy, ensuring his aesthetic remains a part of Singapore’s cultural fabric.”
For Laichan, clothing wasn’t about extravagance, it was about the wearer. Goh recalls how his brother always prioritised how a woman felt in her cheongsam. “To him, fashion enhances the inner self. Elegance was understated, silent, yet powerful. He was more interested in how his creations made someone feel than in any applause.” This design philosophy was deeply personal, especially when it came to reimagining the cheongsam for contemporary Singapore. “Tradition was his foundation, but not his boundary. He respected the roots of the qipao deeply, yet wasn’t afraid to push beyond expected silhouettes, fabrics and cuts. He often said, ‘A tradition that doesn’t evolve becomes a museum piece’. Our collaboration keeps qipao heritage alive—evolving, wearable and resonant in modern Singapore.
The dependable charm that defined the designer also showed in how he approached his work. “He listened more than he spoke,” Goh notes. “He observed customers: their reactions, their hesitations. Instinctively, he created pieces that elevated and spoke to each person. He exuded quiet grace, reflected in how he made people feel seen, affirmed and beautiful.” He also highlights his brother’s enduring resonance when it came to his creations. “He understood emotion and personality; he designed for the wearer.”
Looking back on their working relationship, Goh remembers the countless late nights they spent in tandem.“We didn’t need to speak, we simply understood each other’s rhythm. He would be cutting on the bias with intense focus and I’d be working on embroidery beside him. We were in sync.” Those quiet moments of collaboration meant the most to Goh, especially when his brother would encourage him during tough times. “Fond memories include seeing the quiet pride on his face when someone tried on a cheongsam and was visibly moved. And on days when I felt burnt out, my brother would say, ‘You can do it’. Those candid moments are what I’ll always cherish.”
And in our local sartorial landscape, Laichan’s mark shines in its unique way. “To me, it’s something pure and unbreakable, something that will endure,” Goh shares. “Like gold, his creative journey has been tested and purified through fire. That’s how I want Singapore to remember him and our brand, as the country’s Golden Treasure.”
In honour of his brother’s memory, Goh announces that the label is in the early stages of curating a retrospective exhibition to celebrate Laichan’s artistry. “We’re also exploring a mentorship initiative to support young local designers in traditional craftsmanship, a project close to his heart.” Sharing what’s next for the label, Goh says: “We’re working on a special capsule collection inspired by Laichan’s earliest silhouettes, reimagined for today’s woman. There are also plans to host an intimate showcase, not just of Laichan’s garments, but also of his philosophies. It’s a way to gather those who knew and loved him, and those who’ve yet to discover him.”
As the label’s illustrious journey continues to evolve, so too does the conversation around style and identity. “Fashion in Singapore is a mirror of our multicultural roots. It expresses and defines who we are,” Goh reflects. “Laichan saw the qipao as not just Chinese, but Singaporean—to complement every woman regardless of race and background. A living garment that evolves with our people.” He remembers how, at his brother’s wake: “Many guests paid their respects in stunning qipaos and man’paos. Their pride was palpable. That’s the spirit I want to hold high and preserve.”
For Goh, artistry is at the heart of it all. “Craftsmanship is creativity made with precision, patience and pride. This integrity is central to my design concepts and embroidery. I will protect these sentiments, not just as my techniques, but as my values.” And hence, the label’s tale continues—a new chapter, but a promising one. The brand is no doubt in good hands; a passing down of time, heritage and unwavering devotion.
The Vogue Man ‘Gold’ issue is now available online and on newsstands.
