Our trip to Singapore reignited the passion that brought us to this blog more than 13 (!) years ago. This personal connection has led us to share our enamored opinion about the Singapore fashion scene, based on the Vogue Singapore article “The Evolution of Singapore’s Fashion Community.”
Our trip to Singapore and why this city can become a fashion metropolis
Our trip to Singapore was a delightful surprise. We were completely inspired by this city that seamlessly blends modernity and tradition. It was a cultural and fashion awakening for us. We had no expectations, as Singapore was never really on our travel radar. But as we explored the city, we found ourselves falling in love with its unique charm and fashion scene. Let’s be honest: How many of us have this city on our radar other than as a transit area on flights to Asia or from media reports about the most expensive city in the world?
As a fashion blogger who loves combining fashion, lifestyle, and travel destinations, Singapore was an unpredictable and true paradise. The architecture, vibrant city life, and unique atmosphere make this city not only a prime destination but also a place that has the potential to become the next big fashion capital – a prospect that excites us with full conviction.
You know how much we love traveling, and we must admit that we are now entirely blown away by the impressions of the world’s metropolises and smaller cities. If Tokyo captured us with its oversized look, Singapore did the same in a similar but completely different way. We saw combinations of outfits that we probably wouldn’t dare to wear on the street in Berlin—but why not? Isn’t that what fashion is about?
In this post, we’d like to tell you about our trip, introduce you to our favorite locations and brands, and show you which outfits are perfect for Singapore’s warm, tropical climate.
Singapore: The hidden perfect stage for fashion
When we travel, we love to be inspired by the respective city and incorporate this into our outfits. In Tokyo, the minimalist and clean Japanese lifestyle was reflected in the looks. In Seoul, we love to show the playful yet elegant Korean style. In New York, we often take inspiration from iconic series and films. Singapore has also inspired us with its diversity of culture, architecture, and style.
Singapore is a mix of over-the-top futuristic skyscrapers, charming colonial buildings, and colorful neighborhoods. Every place we visited became the perfect backdrop for photo shoots and campaigns. What we found particularly impressive was how well fashion becomes a statement here—not necessarily through luxury brands, but through creative combinations and a connection to the local environment—it’s just completely different from what we expected.
Singapore’s own fashion identity
When you think of fashion, cities like Paris, Milan, or New York might come to mind, but Singapore has the potential to be at the top of its game, and we’ll tell you why:
The city has a vibrant fashion scene that continues to grow through local and small brands and is characterized by both international influences and strong local roots. The fashion landscape in Singapore is diverse and exciting, with a mix of high-end luxury brands and unique local designers. It’s a place where you can find everything from avant-garde fashion to casual streetwear, all reflecting the city’s multicultural influences.
Of course, we got to check out some of the best local brands during my trip. One of our favorite brands, as you know if you follow us on Instagram, is Charles & Keith, a label known for stylish shoes and bags – simple, timeless, and incredibly chic. You’ll love the brand if you like minimalist but statement accessories! This brand has already caught our attention back in Hong Kong, and since then, it has always been with us on many of our trips, either in the form of a practical bag or comfortable shoes. In addition to Charles & Keith, there are many other fashion labels that define Singapore’s creative fashion world and which we discovered locally:
- In Good Company: a brand that combines minimalist designs with high-quality materials. Their pieces are modern yet relaxed – perfect for everyday life in a vibrant city like Singapore.
- Sabrinagoh: contemporary fashion with an avant-garde twist. I love the clean lines and bold designs, which are still suitable for everyday wear.
- Beyond The Vines: another label that combines minimalist designs with high functionality – particularly suitable for casual but fashionable looks.
- Graye: inspires with timeless, stylish, unisex, minimalist designs. Their focus on high-quality materials and sustainability makes their clothing ideal for the tropical climate in Singapore. Particularly exciting are the versatile basics, such as casual shirts and relaxed pants, that combine comfort and elegance.
These brands show that Singapore is no longer just a plump playground for luxury brand shopping but has developed its own exciting fashion identity.
The best locations for photos and sightseeing
Singapore is simply made for photographers and fashion fans. Every corner offers a new backdrop that makes the city so special. Here is our route through Singapore with our camera ;):
1. Marina Bay Sands & Gardens by the Bay
The futuristic look of Marina Bay Sands is iconic and an absolute must-visit. The gigantic Supertree Groves in the Gardens by the Bay provides an impressive backdrop. The perfect Singapore outfit for this place? Clearly, minimalist outfits—one idea would be a white or beige linen set combined with sandals from Charles & Keith. The clean look fits perfectly with the modern, clean lines of the architecture surrounded by a green oasis of nature.
2. Haji Lane
This charming, colorful neighborhood is a mecca for creatives. The walls are painted with street art, and small boutiques have an unconventional, artistic atmosphere. Here, we saw casual but eye-catching outfits, such as oversized shirts, short shorts, and statement accessories—the ideal mix of urban and relaxed.
3. Chinatown
The traditional shophouses and bright colors of Chinatown offer a completely different aesthetic. Here, we would have opted for outfits that pick up on Asian elements such as floral prints or silk fabrics – unfortunately, the kimonos we bought in Kyoto stayed in Bali – I could have combined them perfectly here (even though Japan is not China).
4. Orchard Road
Of course, we had to visit the famous shopping street. Even though it is primarily known for high-end shopping, we loved the atmosphere there. It is the perfect location to showcase a modern and sleek look. You can also go a little more chic here with a two-piece consisting of wide-leg trousers and a matching cropped jacket.
Perfect fashion for Singapore’s tropical climate
Singapore is hot and humid – so we had to choose outfits that were not only stylish but also practical for the tropical climate. We were admittedly a little unprepared, especially when it came to the rain, but here’s our checklist for our next trip to Singapore:
- Lightweight fabrics: cotton, linen, and silk are essential. They are breathable and prevent you from feeling uncomfortable in the heat.
- Loose cuts: Tight clothing can be uncomfortable in high humidity. Instead, we have opted for loose dresses, wide pants, and flowing skirts.
- Layering for indoor/outdoor: Many buildings in Singapore are heavily air-conditioned. Therefore, you should bring a light cardigan or a thin blouse.
- Stylish sandals and sneakers: My favorites were sandals from Charles & Keith, which were great to combine with my outfits, and sneakers for longer walks.
- Accessories: To add the finishing touch to any outfit, opt for eye-catching bags, hats, and sunglasses. A small, stylish cross-body bag that offers space for the essentials is also particularly practical.
Singapore as the fashion metropolis of the future – a conclusion with a lot of love!
The trip to Singapore showed us that this city has much more to offer than “just” impressive architecture and cultural diversity. We are firmly convinced that it is well on the way to establishing itself as a fashion metropolis. We have spoken to many label owners and recognize the same spirit that has made Seoul and Tokyo, for example, a global pillar in urban fashion. With its unique local brands, creative fashion community, and inspiring backdrops, Singapore is a place that perfectly combines fashion, culture, and lifestyle. Unfortunately, Fashion Week in Singapore “still” only happens on the side. We can only imagine what would happen if the ecosystem from Paris or/ and New York came together with Tokyo and/or Seoul in this place, and we make a promise at this point – we firmly believe in it and will be the first guest at the then blatant Fashion Week in Singapore 😉
For us, this trip was an incredible experience that changed not only our closet but also our perspective on fashion. We came to Singapore with no expectations at all. We are excited to see how the fashion scene in Singapore will continue to develop, and we look forward to returning soon to discover the next trends.
An overview of the outfits Jacky was wearing in Singapore during the trip: