Singaporean style might not be the first thing that comes to mind when we think of our tropical city. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist—as Singapore continues to define its elusive sartorial identity, what better place to look than our fashion schools? In a city where avenues to challenge the status quo remain limited, personal style takes over as an outlet of expression, experimentation and creativity. Captured by local photographer Ethan Lai, the students of LaSalle College of the Arts prove that Singaporean style is anything but boring.
Taking to the campus grounds of LaSalle College of the Arts situated in the heart of Rochor, Vogue Singapore speaks to current fashion students on what they’re wearing to school, their favourite of-the-moment designers and what they’d like to see change in our local fashion industry.
1 / 27
Carin, 21, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My dress is thrifted but it looks like it’s from Dolls Kill. My necklaces are DIY and Vivienne Westwood. My boots are from Taobao.
Where do you like to shop?
Taobao and thrift shops, but thrifting takes a lot of time.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Vivienne Westwood and Iris Van Herpen.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I hope for local fashion to be more interesting and diverse.
2 / 27
Dawama, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My blazer is from Vintagewknd, my skirt is from an Instagram thrift account, my Airism turtleneck is by Hana Tajima for Uniqlo, and my shoes are from Kickers.
Where do you like to shop?
It used to be Uniqlo, but I’ve recently branched out into secondhand clothing on Instagram.
What is your favourite Instagram account at the moment?
@stylenanda_korea
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
There’s nothing I’d really like to change, you can wear anything you want nowadays.
3 / 27
Keran, 21, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My top is from Lucky Plaza, my dress is from a local online store, my boots are Dr. Martens and my jewellery is from Taobao.
Where do you like to shop?
If I’m thrifting, Johor Bahru. But with COVID now, Lucky Plaza and small independent vintage stores.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Iris Van Herpen. I love how she uses tech to create sculptural silhouettes.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I wish we were less critical. We’re quite critical and not the most liberal, but it’s slowly changing.
4 / 27
Marcus, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My earrings were a collaboration with my friend. My mask is the progressive Pride flag, from Prout. My top is +J, and it reminds me of Mark Rothko’s paintings. My boots are from Charles & Keith. I made my pants myself two years ago, and I painted eyeballs and put sequins on them. Because I’m petite, I often find myself wearing womenswear—I don’t believe that clothes should conform to the gender binary of womenswear and menswear, and I just wanted pants that fit me.
Where do you like to shop?
My clothes are dominantly from Uniqlo as I believe in good classics. For interesting pieces, I would thrift. Thrift Dump recently had a designer sale and I scored a Phoebe Philo-era Celine dress.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Dries Van Noten. And Christopher John Rogers for what he stands for—pure joy and optimism.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I think it really comes down to censorship. I hope to see more opportunities for queer visibility, and for local conversations on fashion and gender to expand. I don’t think it’s right for me to comment on what other people are wearing. I also wish to see greater visibility for emerging designers.
5 / 27
Jamie, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My blazer is thrifted, my top is from Uniqlo, my skirt is from Beyond The Vines, and my shoes are Adidas. I was going for an effortlessly chic vibe—and comfortable, definitely.
Where do you like to shop?
Thrift stores, Muji, Uniqlo and the fourth floor on Lucky Plaza.
What is your favourite Instagram account at the moment?
@oldmanrepeller
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
Decolonise the western influence on fashion in Singapore.
6 / 27
Amir Nurhaziq, 20, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My blazer and bag are from Shein, my pants are thrifted from Lucky Plaza, my sneakers are Skechers and my earrings are DIY.
Where do you like to shop?
Either thrifting, H&M or online.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Olivier Rousteing from Balmain. I love how avant-garde his designs are.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
Wearing flip-flops to town!
7 / 27
Wai Lynn, 20, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My leather jacket and boots are from Carol Christian Poell. My pants are from Leon Emanuel Blanck, and my t-shirt is by Boris Bisdjan Saberi.
Where do you like to shop?
L’armoire. It’s in Orchard, and you can find mostly avant-garde menswear and leather boots.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Carol Christian Poell.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
The weather. And for people to wear more leather.
8 / 27
Vrinda, 20, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My look would be best described as Indo-Western. The black kurti is a handcrafted Chikenkari embroidered piece—a speciality of Lucknow, India. To make it contemporary Indian, I paired it with mom jeans, white ankle-length Charles and Keith boots and statement silver jewellery picked up from India.
Where do you like to shop?
My favourite places to pick up clothing and accessories are from exhibitions and expos in India that celebrate the diversity of fabric, print and patterns of the various states.
What is your favourite Instagram account at the moment?
My favourite Instagram account would be @goodonyou_app. The platform allows me to become more educated and aware of brands that are ethical, fair, sustainable and inclusive for the right reasons—it helps me make guilt-free shopping choices.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
The one thing that I’d like to change about Singaporean fashion would be the tokenism employed by brands in the name of racial diversity and the lack of inclusivity of all Asian body types.
9 / 27
Iris, 21, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My blouse was a gift from a friend as it was no longer her style. My skirt and necklaces were swapped at The Fashion Pulpit. My jewellery is from Gleam Studios and some of them were made by me as I was into beading for a while. My mask is from Closet Children. My style tends to lean towards grandma chic—I love mixing sneakers with feminine styles.
Where do you like to shop?
I love to swap at The Fashion Pulpit—since I work there, it’s convenient. I’m into secondhand clothing as we all know about the damaging impact of fast fashion. I also like going to Lucky Plaza.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Marine Serre. As a designer myself, I find her designs very aspirational, especially what they do with upcycling.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I feel like we should have lesser blogshops. I don’t mind local brands, but they tend to look the same with their shift dresses, pastel tones. I also hope to see more exposure for smaller brands.
10 / 27
Wyona, 21, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My top is from Issey Miyake men’s. My skirt is from a small shop overseas, and I love it for its attention to detail as it actually has no seams and overlock. My jade bangle is a gift from my dad. My men’s watch is from Jaeger-LeCoultre and it was also a gift from my dad for my 21st birthday. My bag is from Balenciaga, but I added my own strap as I wanted it to be cross-body. My boots are Dr. Martens. Even though my outfit is all black, it’s the details that I’m really drawn to.
Where do you like to shop?
Instagram, actually. There are a lot of small brands, especially from Indonesia, that are ethically sourced and made. I also love Ann Demuelemeester.
What are your favourite Instagram accounts at the moment?
@f.jsheng and @wzvul.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
It’s my dream to see Singapore have a fashion week that is celebrated, and treated like a big deal. I would love to see Singapore’s fashion week be a thing for everyone, not just something for people in the industry to take part in. I also hope to see more local street style, as I think younger generations really use style and fashion as a form of self-expression.
11 / 27
Sindhu, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My blazer is thrifted from New2u, I got my shirt and pants on sale from H&M, my necklace is from Charles & Keith, my belt is from Asos and my boots are Dr. Martens.
Where do you like to shop?
The thrift store, New2u. I always find something new there—you really find gems, and it’s more sustainable to shop secondhand.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Raf Simons, ever since he worked at Dior. He’s so futuristic and you can really see his thinking process in his garments.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I think people who love fashion should explore purchasing secondhand. I’m personally trying to stop purchasing fast fashion, and it’s good to support local brands and bring them into the spotlight.
12 / 27
Kris, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My shirt is from H&M, my pants are from Zara, my boots are from Asos, my Coach belt is from Carousell, and my chain and harness are from Bugis Street. My watch was left behind by my dad.
Where do you like to shop?
My favourite place to shop is Zara, and Carousell for timeless secondhand clothes.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
I used to tell people I don’t have one, but if I had to name someone, it would be Guo Pei. I just fell in love with the glamour and detail of her designs.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I think people are still quite conservative in Singapore. We know that fashion is out there, but we don’t have the courage to venture out of our comfort zones. I hope to see that mindset change.
13 / 27
Chloe, 23, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My top is from Imakokoni, my skirt is from Unif and my shoes are Nike.
Where do you like to shop?
I actually don’t shop in physical stores anymore. I frequent websites that curate Japanese clothing and ship to Singapore.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Mikio Sakabe.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I wish everything were less westernised. I often look to Japanese fashion and would love to see Singapore fashion retain and embrace our own aesthetic.
14 / 27
Justin, 20, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My shirt is thrifted from Lucky Plaza, my skirt is from Uniqlo and my boots are Devoa.
Where do you like to shop?
Generally, I like Comme des Garçons—I like their loud and outgoing stuff and runway pieces that can’t be found easily. I also shop on sites like Grailed and Yahoo Auction.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Rei Kawakubo.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I would like to see people put in more effort into what they wear every day.
15 / 27
Martina, 18, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My shirt and skirt are from Depop, my jeans are from Topshop, my shoes are secondhand Nike and my gloves are thrifted. My necklace was a gift.
Where do you like to shop?
I find myself shopping online more than in physical stores. I’m not too fond of wearing brands, I like unique pieces.
What are your favourite Instagram accounts at the moment
@hystericfashion and @ye_olde_shame_shoppe.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I would love to see more individuality. There’s still a lot of stigma around overdressing and I hope to see more experimentation.
16 / 27
Serge, 20, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My shirt is from Cos, my suit was from my mom, my accessories are from Vitaly and my shoes are Converse.
Where do you like to shop?
I mostly shop online.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Heliot Emil.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I would love to see people step out of their comfort zone more. Fashion to me is art and expression and I hope people can explore things that might not immediately suit them.
17 / 27
Xavier, 18, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My shirt is vintage, my pants are Rick Owens and my boots are Saint Laurent.
Where do you like to shop?
Mostly online, especially for pieces that are harder to find.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Hedi Slimane. I’m very into the punk rock, biker look at the moment.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I’d like to see more diversity and exploration, and for people to show who they are, instead of hopping on trends. I respect everyone’s individual style even if it’s not something I like—that’s what makes fashion unique.
18 / 27
Nuha, 22, Diploma in Creative Direction for Fashion
Describe your look.
My jacket is from Asos, my corduroy pants are thrifted, and my shoes are Converse.
Where do you like to shop?
Usually online as I’m plus-size and there are more options online.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Schiaparelli.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
I wished people would be braver in trying new things, and not conforming to trends—this goes for me too.
19 / 27
Tian Poh, 25, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My black leather blazer, trousers and sunglasses are vintage, my turtle neck is Marine Serre, and the black heart necklace is from Visualjargon.
Where do you like to shop?
I usually buy secondhand clothes from Bangkok.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Marine Serre.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I hope for Singapore’s fashion industry to be more open-minded and accepting in terms of breaking the status quo—be it having women taking on leadership roles, or having younger creatives taking on critical roles in major projects.
20 / 27
Siti, 22, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
I was listening to Rihanna’s old albums and I was really inspired—she needs to come out with a new album. My pants and boots are from Zara, my coat is my sister’s and my top is from Asos.
Where do you like to shop?
Mostly online.
What is your favourite Instagram account at the moment?
@kai_isaiah_jamal.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
People need to be more open to the idea of self-expression.
21 / 27
Felicia Angelina, 20, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My Moditec coat is thrifted, my shorts are from Jakarta, and my earrings are from a local bazaar.
Where do you like to shop?
Thrifting is fun because of how budget-friendly it is.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Iris Van Herpen.
If you could, what would you change about Singapore fashion?
Singapore fashion seems to be mostly outsourced, but there are a lot of talented people here. Singapore fashion tends to be quite commercial and can be pushed more. We shouldn’t be afraid to try something different.
22 / 27
Danessa, 24, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My robe is from Uniqlo, my boots are Stylenanda, my stockings are from Dolls Kill, my dress is from Wegangyoung and my jewellery is from Visualjargon, Vivienne Westwood, Gucci and somewhere on the streets of Japan.
Where do you like to shop?
Online. Recently I’ve been purchasing a lot from Dolls Kill.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Vivienne Westwood.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
The idea of freedom, fashion and dress. The biggest flaw is when someone finds a trend, everyone follows.
23 / 27
Aetll, 23, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
I’m wearing an Issey Miyake Pleats Please dress, vinyl ballerina flats from Charles & Keith, and necklaces from Visualjargon.
Where do you like to shop?
I really enjoy rummaging through my parents’ closets for vintage pieces they used to wear when they were my age.
What is your favourite Instagram account at the moment?
@yukikawae, who posts videos of himself designing zen gardens. It’s just so calming and therapeutic.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I feel like fashion should not just be reserved for the rich to influence. There is too much nepotism in the fashion industry and we always see the same faces.
24 / 27
Kelly, 25, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My dress is from Asos, my boots are from Zara and my accessories are from Gucci and Korea.
Where do you like to shop?
Everywhere. I thrift a lot and I shop on Ssense and Asos.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
I don’t really look at designer brands. I draw inspiration from stylists like Leslie Zhang, Audrey Hu and Ballball Chiu.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I want to see people be more experimental with the way they dress.
25 / 27
Devon, 19, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
The selendang is from Sejauh Mata Memandang, the shirt, hat and skirt are from Uniqlo, the batik sarong is from Solo, the necklace is Visualjargon and my shoes are Vans. My rings are from Gardens of the Sun and Tulola, and the bag was a collaboration between Toton and Kojo.
Where do you like to shop?
Mostly multi-label stores, like SocietyA, Bobobobo and Masari.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Toton.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I wished more brands would embrace their culture and heritage.
26 / 27
Sermin, 25, BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles
Describe your look.
My top is from Hyeinseo, my pants are from Uniqlo, and my shoes are Vans.
Where do you like to shop?
Anywhere interesting, like vintage shops. Pre-COVID, overseas.
Who is your favourite designer at the moment?
Ann Demuelemeester.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I hope for people to wear whatever they want, to step out of their comfort zones.
27 / 27
Adrian, 25, BA(Hons) Fashion Media and Industries
Describe your look.
My jacket is Dries Van Noten, my pants are by some underground Korean brand that custom-tailored the length for me, and my shoes are Nike Air Jordans 1 Royal. My necklace is from Yard Yarn.
Where do you like to shop?
Grailed, Ssense and Mr Porter.
Who are your favourite designers at the moment?
Margiela, Matthew M. Williams and Ann Demuelemeester.
If you could, what is one thing you would change about Singapore fashion?
I don’t really care too much about what others wear. I think local designers are doing a good job so far, but many of them venture overseas instead of staying here.
