In the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic that is still sweeping across the globe, many consumer brands are facing a challenging road ahead in achieving business stability and recovery from the financial upheaval that has followed strict border controls and a drastic dip in consumers’ willingness to shop.
At A Magazine, we know that some businesses — particularly small and medium local retailers — will need all the help they can get. To help you find the best that our local fashion scene has to offer, we will be curating a list of homegrown brands that you should have on your radar.
This week, we’re not forgetting the stylish men amidst us. Guys who are hunting for fresh, spiffy threads and elevated basics for your day-to-day use, these menswear labels have you covered.
To check out other homegrown fashion brands and businesses — including menswear, womenswear and style services — you can find a collection of curated lists here.
01 | Dzojchen
A brand that counts several A-list celebs — including Diplo, Shawn Mendes and Chadwick Boseman — in its roster of fans, Dzojchen (pronounce doh-zhen) is founded by Chelsea Scott-Blackhall. Known for their ultra-sleek take on tailoring, Dzojchen offers up a line of luxury mens- and womenswear that combine contemporary fits with a vast range of tactile fabrics and textures.
For more information, visit dzojchen.com
02 | biro
Approaching their menswear with unwaveringly strict requirements in quality and cut, biro is the result of Kenghow and Kage Chong. The brothers share an obsession for rare, premium Japanese textiles, and choose to highlight their prized materials by sticking to clean, minimalist lines. Ultimately, you’re left a product that celebrates introspective design and beautifully-made material.
For more information, visit birocompany.com
03 | Graye
Minimalist fashion doesn’t have to be boring, and Graye is proving this point. Since 2016, the local fashion brand has produced designs that strip away the bells and whistles to create functional, everyday pieces. With clear Japanese influences, details are sparingly added back to give it an interesting twist. For example, a bomber jacket gets kimono-inspired ties and a pair of shorts is finished with a gurkha-styled waistband.
For more information, visit grayestudio.com
04 | Duxton
Given that Duxton’s founders also started concept space and cafe Monument Lifestyle, it’s only expected that both brands would embody similar Californian-inspired vibes. Based in Singapore and produced in Los Angeles, Duxton embodies that laidback charm that is so often associated with the City of Angels. Think easy, elevated basics that work for a myriad of daily occasions, as well as a range of printed shirts for a smartened-up approach to casualwear.
For more information, visit duxton.com
05 | Faculty
Functional, but make it fashion. That’s essentially what you can expect from Faculty. Though product choices are comparatively lesser, Faculty delivers on a series of basic pieces that are streamlined and optimised over time. Denim is sourced from mills in Japan, shirts have been pre-shrunk to save your some laundry nightmares, and T-shirts are knit in a tubular fashion for greater comfort and fit.
For more information, visit faculty.com.sg
06 | Colony
While not technically a local fashion brand, Colony is one of those under-the-radar stores that still deserves plenty of support. Enter their space on Boat Quay and you’ll be greeted with a well-curated selection of men’s clothing, accessories and grooming products fit for the discerning gents of today. Plus, the team is trained to help you navigate their growing inventory of products, and you can always chat with them online should you feel stumped.
For more information, visit colonyclothing.net
07 | Onlewo
Love prints? You’ll dig Onlewo then. Every motif used by the brand is designed in-house by founder Mike Tay, and features symbols that reference iconic Singaporean landmarks and cultural touchpoints. While the brand also produces homeware, upholstery and wallpapers, it’s really their men’s shirts in playful motifs that will steal your heart.
For more information, visit onlewo.com