October is a pivotal month for Vogue Singapore, marking the fourth anniversary since its launch. Over the years, its mandate to drive change for good has transformed—from championing creative talent right here in Singapore to celebrating regional voices. This month’s ‘Community’ issue serves as a testament to the power of representation, bringing together four breakout faces from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam on the cover.
Lensed by Malaysian photographer Nelson Chong, the shoot spotlights models Aslesha (Singapore), Suganya (Malaysia), Clarita (Indonesia), and Tu Anh (Vietnam), styled by Vogue Singapore’s editor-in-chief, Desmond Lim. Drawing inspiration from the supermodel era of the late ’80s and ’90s, the imagery captures graphic, dynamic movements and poses, emphasising a sense of strength and camaraderie.
“Community, to me, is the creation of a safe space to express who you are,” shares Aslesha. A longtime collaborator, the Singaporean model has become a prominent presence in the fashion industry, recognised for her ethereal charm and doe-like eyes. “It’s a place where you feel seen and heard, where you can thrive in whatever you choose to pursue, and where you are free and empowered to fully embody who you are and what you stand for. For me, as a model, it is about being part of a sisterhood that transcends boundaries, embraces inclusivity, and celebrates beauty.”
“I think representation, as a whole, involves including a group of diverse individuals who are seen, heard, and valued in society,” adds Malaysian model Suganya. A fixture on the country’s fashion weeks and gracing national covers, this self-professed newcomer has quickly become one to watch. “It’s not just about including people who look different; it’s about incorporating individuals with varying opinions, beliefs, experiences, and identities—keeping in mind that the realities of all these individuals from different backgrounds are portrayed in the best way possible.”
To top it all off, the four models showcase creations from regional talents like Vietnam’s Phan Huy, Malaysia’s Brian Khoo, and Indonesia’s Adeline Esther. As you turn the pages, you’ll discover a vibrant representation of community in various forms. This issue also reveals the winner of the Vogue Talent Prize 2024: Claire Boon, an artist and graphic designer. In her one-of-a-kind creation for Vogue Singapore, Claire delves into themes of individuality and diversity in design, contemplating what these concepts mean in today’s world.
On the culinary front, we highlight three of Singapore’s latest modern Asian restaurants—Hayop, Club Rangoon, and Odem. These establishments merge traditional recipes with a contemporary twist, offering a dining experience that fosters connection through food—a tribute to the diverse migrant communities from around the world. And on the final page of the book is a homage to the art of Tamil poetry. Penned by two-time Singapore Literature Prize winner, Latha, the poem serves as an invite to bridge any gaps that might exist amongst us.
As for what else there is to look forward to this month? The issue comes full circle with Vogue Singapore’s second iteration of Next In Vogue happening on 18 October. Hosted at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel and The Capitol Theatre in Singapore, the event will include a two-day conference, an exhibition of Asian designer red-carpet moments, an innovation pavilion featuring the latest in fashion technology and a curation of beauty and styling masterclasses.
Photography Nelson Chong
Styling Desmond Lim
Movement director Jane Nah
Set designer Arendayen Abegail Loreno
Producer David Bay
Make-up Kat Zhang
Hair Yuhi Kim using DunGüd and Woorailoora
Manicure Rebecca Chuang
Videographer Natalie Dykes
Photographer’s assistants Bernard Chong, Saiful Azwan, and Marcus Cheong
Stylist’s assistants Claire Tsumura, Helaine Ercia, Lance Aeron Pielago, Shruti Balaji, Naina Goenka, and Nurul Firdousee
Hair assistant Dorcas Yam
Make-up assistant Sophia
Models Huynh Tu Anh, Aslesha Williams, Clarita, and Suganya
The October anniversary ‘Community’ issue of Vogue Singapore is available for pre-order online and in-store from 4 October 2024.
