It’s no secret that we at Vogue Singapore pride ourselves on our ability to sniff out potential within the fashion realm before it hits the mainstream. Such was the case with Grace Ling; a homegrown designer with a keen interest in 3D tech and sustainable pieces. We first profiled her in 2021, at the onset of her pre-collection launch titled ‘Uncanny Dreamscapes’. She made a strong impression then, where her strong visual acuity translated to sculptural, modern pieces that are tailored to drape over the body enticingly. Ling has since launched two other collections: ‘Mimicry’ as well as ‘Square’—with the latter having gained rapid traction since creations from the range were spotted on Hollywood heavyweights, like Karlie Kloss and Jennifer Lopez (who most recently performed on Fallon Tonight).
What does it mean to garner acclaim from such big names within the industry, and where will Grace Ling go from here? We sat down with the designer herself to find out more.
Tell us more about the concept about your latest collection? What were you inspired by?
The latest collection is titled “Square”. The design process is to me, a form of meditation through geometry. In a time of excess and chaos, I found peace in simple, uncomplicated geometric shapes. There is an essence of purity in a square, circle or triangle. A square is at once meaningless and filled with infinite meaning. It could be a frame, focus, boundary or space.
This collection is a journey of clean form, line and silhouette. Serious yet playful at the same time, minimal yet intricate in details. Drawing inspirations from Malevich’s Suprematism, Rothko, Lucio Fontana and others, a curation of shapes becomes layered in symbols and code. Styled with the signature Butt Bags, Pot Bags, and Mesh Bags, they take on a new context and interpretation this season.
3D technology obviously plays a large part in your designs. How did you first come to the realisation that you wanted to incorporate CAD and CGI tech into your designs?
At first, it was just pure interest. I honestly just thought it would be cool to learn. I soon found myself delving very deep into it and nerding out of different material alternatives. After learning about its sustainable properties and ability to push boundaries in design, it naturally became the platform that I use to design.
Has living in Singapore influenced your design process in any shape and form?
Subconsciously, my parents influenced me a lot. My mother is a make-up artist and my father is an events designer. He does a lot of large-scale props and set-ups in shopping malls and public places in Singapore. The nature of these props are very surrealist in its own unique way. My own work often pays homage to surrealism, of course, and I have my own taste and style now, but there is an underlying influence.
Are there any specific pieces or stylistic elements in your works that pay homage to your roots?
I am oddly proud that the Pot Bags look almost Asian-influenced in its style.
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How did your designs catch the attention of celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Karlie Kloss? What was their reception like?
Their stylists slid into my DMs! J.Lo got a look in black at first and she loved it so much she wanted one in white too! My dear friend Albert (@upnextdesigner) has been reposting my work and many celebrities and stylists found me there. It is so surreal! I think I am still processing all of this. I still remember being a kid in Singapore, singing to ‘On The Floor’ and watching Victoria’s Secret shows. I can’t believe I am dressing them now.
Are there any challenges or pressures that come with garnering recognition from Hollywood celebrities?
It is mostly exciting! But definitely keeping up with the demand is some serious real hard work.
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What’s a piece of advice you would give to Singaporean designers who are looking to expand their brand or potentially be able to dress global celebrities?
Stay very focused on your goal. Success can be measured in many different ways: it could be financial, targeted niche audience, recognition, or even just creating something you are absolutely pleased with based on your own standards. Focus on what you want and do not be distracted by what others are doing. Originality is overrated but always, always be authentic. If you want to dress celebrities you can try to get on @upnextdesigner’s Instagram page! It is pretty easy to connect with people these days if your work is good and authentic.
What can we expect to see from your designs in the future?
Every new collection is a continuation of the previous one. It’s always a new concept and a new story, however, the underlying DNA of the brand goes through an evolution every season. Expect even more wit and humour, and expect more performative, multidisciplinary fashion. Our next collection will be launching in June 2022!
What do you hope emerges from your craft five years down the road?
I hope that my craft will inspire people to explore alternative routes in fashion and the creative world at large. We are on the journey to build our own fashion house and have the best people on our team.
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Shop Grace Ling’s Square 02 Collection here.
