The topic of workplace dressing and “office style” has long sparked discourse within the fashion community, and for good reason. On one hand, many are of the notion that the rules and regulations set in place at any job certainly cripples personal creativity and freedom of expression. On the flipside, there is a growing consensus that personal style transcends the black and white, spearheaded by a passionate younger generation constantly looking to put their own spin of what is traditionally deemed work appropriate.
In a local context, functionality and versatility seem to be the name of the game. To combat the sweltering heat and humidity here, relaxed garments in breathable fabrics such as linen and silk reign supreme. Colour-blocking is huge, with many coordinating their ensembles in matching or complementary hues. Monochromatic palettes and earth tones seem to work best, their neutrality fit for any occasion—casual or formal. Quality accessories are also key, think statement footwear, dazzling jewellery and the season’s latest It-bags.
So how exactly do the stylish crowd in Singapore display their sartorial prowess within the confines of a work environment? In the second iteration of this work style series, local photographer Zilhanz Bin Affendi lenses seven new profiles spanning across various fields. Below, each of these modish individuals shed light on their workplace style, go-to shopping haunts and how their occupations influence the way they dress.
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Jariel, 26, marketing and programming associate
Describe your look.
My vest and jeans are from a denim shop in Kobe. The clogs are from Shaka and my watch is Chopard. The earrings are 3D printed by me, and the rest of my accessories are bits picked up during recent travels.
Where do you usually shop?
I enjoy swapping clothes with The Fashion Pulpit and exploring pieces by regional designers from online consignments. Currently, my top brands include Bryan Adkins, GhostBoy, and LESMETINS.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
I tend to veer towards pieces that can seamlessly transition from day to night, especially if they are toeing the line between silly and casual.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
For sure, I think an attire both shapes and reflects a wearer’s interest and personality. That influences how someone’s perceived in the workplace.
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Sabrina, 27, social insights analyst & creative strategist
Describe your look.
My dress is from DISSH and my shoes are Adidas Spezials. The vintage watch is passed down from my grandmother, and other accessories are gifted or collected from my travels.
Where do you usually shop?
Recently, I’ve been supporting more independent brands such as Whimsigirl and Good Addition. I am also into Australian brands like DISSH, Bec + Bridge, Meshki, Camilla and Marc.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
Comfort and practicality is at the top of the list, I also like keeping it sophisticated and tasteful.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Not really. I pride myself in the way I dress at and outside of work. I take things up a notch even though it’s not necessarily required of me, simply because it makes me feel good.
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Hafizzul, 43, chef and owner of Restaurant Fiz
Describe your look.
My jacket is from FIN Crafted Goods Co., and my shoes are Adidas Sambas. I tend to wear a lot of muted shades that can match easily with my sand-coloured kitchen apron.
Where do you usually shop?
One of my new favourite brands is FIN Crafted Goods Co., I frequent them so often that we commissioned them to make the aprons at Fiz. I also enjoy vintage shopping at Tasstore in Peninsula Shopping Centre and The Cartel’s in Haji Lane.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
I veer towards breathable clothing given our warm climate, in looser silhouettes that allow for ease of movement. Apart from that, I also pay close attention to how all my clothes fit together—an extension of the attention to detail I apply to everything that I do.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Yes, my job influences my style heavily. I am always on the go, so comfort and durability are of paramount importance.
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Shauna, 29, aesthetic doctor
Describe your look.
My top is from Pafon, the bottoms from Meshki and my heels are from Jimmy Choo. The bag is from Bottega Veneta, earrings are from Chanel and the watch is Omega.
Where do you usually shop?
I mostly shop online on FWRD, Revolve or Net-A-Porter but also individual labels like Arakki, DISSH, Meshki, The Frankie Shop, Helsa Studio and Jacquemus.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
I tend to opt for polished looks that inspire confidence, but also something that does not hinder movements that are required for my procedures.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Yes for sure. I try to weave my own personal flair into the traditional notion of what a doctor should look like, but I find myself sticking to neutral tones and silhouettes so the attention and focus is still always on my patients.
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Mervin, 35, barista and co-founder of Fluid Coffee Roasters
Describe your look.
My T-shirt is from See You Later Algtr, a passion project by a friend. The cargo pants are from Carhartt and my shoes are Converse.
Where do you usually shop?
Most of my shirts are gifts from friends who run their own brands, while my bottoms are usually thrifted online or from Carousell. I also pop by the vintage store Loop Garms from time to time.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
Comfort is key for me, as I am on my feet for the most part of the day. I also stay away from white and restrictive clothing due to the nature of my work.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Nope, I dress in whatever makes me feel good.
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Vanessa, 29, accounts manager and content creator
Describe your look.
My top is from Love, Bonito, blazer from Pull & Bear, and skirt from Shop at Velvet. My bag is from Telfar, heels I bought in Thailand, and accessories from Bali.
Where do you usually shop?
Carhartt, Shop at Velvet, and Loma Whale are some brands that I frequent. I also shop at retail spaces overseas and Dover Street Market.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
The weather, occasion and location all play a big part, especially if I am out of the office for shoots or events.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Definitely. How I dress sets the tone for the day as I enter any meeting room, event, or space.
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Joyy, 34, musician
Describe your look.
My bomber jacket is from Alexander McQueen, the braided corset and cargo pants are Dion Lee. My shoes are from Grounds, and the bag is Balenciaga. My rings and necklaces are from Madly Gems, Hey Maeve, Cartier and Sarah Zhuang Jewellery.
Where do you usually shop?
Due to convenience, I definitely prefer to shop online on platforms with convenient return and exchange policies, such a Net-A-Porter, Alo, H&M and Taobao. I also enjoy shopping at local independent boutique when I travel.
What are some factors you consider when getting dressed for work?
The nature and venue of my work for that particular day is key—whether I’m performing a show, recording in the studio, or behind the computer.
Do you think your occupation influences the way that you dress?
Yes, it somewhat does. As a creative, I have the freedom to dress beyond the confines of a corporate setting, which allows for me to adopt various personas through my outfits.
