Yesterday was one of those days where I get to do what I
love best; meeting new emerging designers and previewing their maiden
collections which will only hit Parco next NEXT store in April.
Naturally the mood at these events is super exciting and
optimistic and from talking to these talents, I can sense that the fact that
they are finally doing what they always wanted to do is satisfying enough for
them. Regardless how the business side of it goes, at least they are getting
the chance to live the dream.
 |
| All the new designers from Parco next NEXT seemed optimistic and eager to show the crowds what they've got. |
And despite the difference of their approaches and
inspirations (they varied from the visually impaired to Robin Hood and
Architecture…), they all share one thing in common: the hope of reaching like-minded
people who understand and appreciate their work.
In total, the third batch of designers emerging from Parco’s
incubator program consists of 18 labels who meander from minimalist to
practical to dreamy and ambitious. From the ubiquitous black and greys to
explosions of colours. I can definitely see more variation in the approaches
and styles this time around and I have to say I was quite impressed by some of
them.
To review them all and compare them in this post would be
unfair and hasty especially as most had only a handful of samples to showcase.
But from their lookbooks and sketches I can see they are a work in progress. So
instead I will tell you about the three new labels that blew me away.
LION EARL
By far and away the most gorgeous piece of the day (and in a long while really) was a black structured ensemble from Lion Earl’s collection, which didn’t so much grab my attention as kidnap it, take it to an isolated hillside location and demand a significant ransom. Taking their inspiration from architectural forms, Lionel and Hariz have put in place the foundations for a serious career.
 |
| I'm still swooning over this gorgeous outfit from Lion Earl... |
 |
| The details are all hand made and took the designer 40 hours of work! |
By far and away the most gorgeous piece of the day (and in a long while really) was a black structured ensemble from Lion Earl’s collection, which didn’t so much grab my attention as kidnap it, take it to an isolated hillside location and demand a significant ransom. Taking their inspiration from architectural forms, Lionel and Hariz have put in place the foundations for a serious career.
Besides the coherent theme and philosophy which you cannot
ignore, the execution of the pieces is immaculate and so sophisticated that I
bet every local fashionista worthy of the name will be queuing up for their
custom-made designs very soon!
 |
| The talented duo behind the label, Lionel and Hariz |
Creating unique yet flattering cuts which combine elegance with rough edges and stunning details (working on one skirt took the designers 40 hours!), their pieces are closer to ‘couture’ than ready-to-wear. I personally cannot wait to see the whole collection and if I can fit this sample, I’ll be begging to borrow it for one of my events bearing in mind that you need to order the pieces a couple of months in advance. Totally worth it though!
MASH-UP
 |
| MASH-UP were not afraid to stand out with their playful and colour-rich designs |
OK back down to earth, more specifically the street. Next up
on my hot list is a playful and fun streetwear label MASH-UP.
I honestly couldn’t believe my eyes when I caught a glimpse
of their off-the-wall designs. I almost had to pinch myself to believe this was
indeed a Singaporean label!
I love the young and energetic feel of their ‘Totemania’
collection which takes a lot of inspiration from Native American tribes in
terms of patterns and forms yet maintains an urban feel with denim and patches
of neon hued fabric.
Sounds interesting right?
 |
| Daniela and Nathanael, 2 of the designers of MASH-UP wearing their creations |
MASH-UP which is a ‘mash up’ of three designers, Nathanael,
Daniela and Shaf offers something new and original in Singapore. The DIY spirit
of the collection which they reinforce in their blog (whatamashup.blogspot.com)
injects even more fun to daily fashion.
My favourite piece from this unisex label has to be the
denim dress adorned with colourful patches. Come mid-April I’ll be popping past
to grab it. I’m not entirely sure how well they will go down in Singapore but
we’ll have to wait and see.
 |
| I love this denim dress with all the sewn in details... |
 |
| All the patches are from recycled fabric as well. |
RÊVASSEUR:
Is Singapore finally discovering its colour palette? If some
of these designers have their way then the monotones are on their way out.
But RÊVASSEUR is totally unapologetic with its explosive colour
and pattern combinations. It’s sending a clear message to Singaporean women.
STOP WEARING BLACK.
The designs owed more to Tokyo than Singapore, so it was not
a surprise when I learned that Gilda Su, the designer, went to fashion design
school in the Japanese capital.
 |
| Tucked in the corner, RÊVASSEUR's designs were way more colourful than everything else around... |
She then jetted off to NYC to study at Parsons and intern at
the legendary stylist of Sex and the City Patricia Field’s boutique. Now that’s
what I call a serious fashion upbringing.
The influence of all these experiences on RÊVASSEUR (daydreamer
in French) is obvious, yet the collection is very unique to the designer
herself who made me look pale in comparison!
 |
| Gilda, the designer of the label is not afraid to stand out as well |
It is avant-garde, sweet, bold and intense all at the same
time. The silhouettes are playful and crafty yet retain some sharpness which
makes them stand out as statement pieces rather than costumes despite their ‘out
there’ patterns and colours.
Talking to Gilda, I instantly bonded with her over our
shared love for colour, OTT patterns and light-hearted fun approach to fashion.
And if she stays true to her word, you’ll soon see some collaboration between
us on this blog! Beware though, if you’re not used to this much colour, we
advise you to put on some shades before viewing ;-)
Note: I will be reviewing more of the new designers in my next post so watch this space!
Note: I will be reviewing more of the new designers in my next post so watch this space!
 |
| Standing next to Gilda, makes me look pale for the first time in Singapore! |