From playful colours to a ’70s comeback, these are the trends to watch, plus must-buy items this season – according to the merchandisers from three of the hippest multi-label stores in SG.
From playful colours to a ’70s comeback, these are the trends to watch, plus must-buy items this season – according to the merchandisers from three of the hippest multi-label stores in SG.
ACTUALLY
Casual - Quirky - Fun
NINA CABELA, 26, RETAIL BUYER
The SS ’20 Mood
In general, it’s minimal and relaxed yet adventurous. The runway shows have plenty of ’80s-inspired power dressing, head-to-toe leather and all-over prints, but the silhouette is usually straight-cut and loose, which makes it comfortable for the wearer – this is what we are bringing in to the store. There are also a lot of pastels this season, which is more youthful and playful. And we are seeing designers putting a little twist on designs to make the looks more interesting.
Actually is at #03-18 Orchard Gateway (tel: 6735-3118), open daily from 11am-9.30pm.
From top: Curetty; Rocket X Lunch; Lazy Oaf
3 Names to Watch
ROCKET X LUNCH: The unisex Korean label is known for its elevated basics with extra details, as seen in its SS ’20 collection – think a classic white shirt done in two tones with some ruffles, or an A-line skirt with drawstrings on its hem so that one can add some volume.
CURETTY: Another Korean label, but this one is still new in the market. Its upcoming collection shows a lot of potential. With its graphic tees and miniskirts, it exudes a nostalgic ’90s vibe that will continue to be very trendy this season.
LAZY OAF: This London-based label has been with us for years, but we’re still always excited about what it has to offer. Founded by designer Gemma Shiel in 2001, its collection every season is very unpredictable as it does not follow trends or designers. Each concept is always out of the norm.
5 KEY PIECES
1. BRALET, LAZY OAF
Bralets are key this season, be it printed ones or just plain black, as they can easily be styled under sheer tops or worn alone. Many brands have also been showcasing low-cut necklines, which will likely be a hit this season.
2. CROPPED TOP, CURETTY
Cropped tops are trending this season and are very suitable for Singapore’s weather. This mesh one from Curetty will keep one cool and comfortable.
3. LAYERED TOP, ROCKET X LUNCH
Shirt layering is another key trend this season for both sexes. I personally like this one because it encourages people to reimagine their old shirts or tops, and give them a new look and style.
4. EXTRA+LARGE BAG, FREITAG
Bags in extreme sizes have been statement pieces since last year, and I’m sure this will continue this season. I like that this helps in sustainability, since you can easily dump everything into it and minimise your use of plastic bags.
5. SHOULDER BAG, CURETTY
Designers are exploring and creating shapes for more hands-free carrying. We started bringing in such accessories last year and will be sure to have more in the coming months.
MANIFESTO
Alternative - Minimalist - Cool
WALID ZAAZAA, 41, FOUNDER
The SS ’20 Mood
It is definitely a ’70s comeback, with narrower shoulders, a higher waist, and even boot-cut hems. The colours are an interesting mix of pastel orange with purples, brown, bronze and earthy tones. We’ll probably see logo-type streetwear being slowly replaced by authentic utility or sportswear brands (Patagonia, Carhartt, etc), and it will be across genders. I also hope we will move on from the collaboration trend and strive for better products and style, instead of pure hype.
Manifesto is at #02-17 Mandarin Gallery (tel: 6304-7948), open daily from 11am-9pm.
From top: Thinking Mu; Our Legacy; Carne Bollente
3 Names to Watch
THINKING MU: This label from Barcelona is very serious about being eco-friendly. All its fabrics do not harm the environment, and it only uses natural dyeing processes and innovative recycled materials.
OUR LEGACY: The Stockholm-based brand’s collections are always surprising as the designers tend to disregard trends and invest in things like developing custom fabrics.
CARNE BOLLENTE: Established in 2014, this Parisian collective is led by friends Hijiri Endo, Theodore Famery and Agoston Palinko. I love how they explore sex positivity with their tongue-in-cheek designs.
5 KEY PIECES
1. POLO CARDIGAN, OUR LEGACY
This is my favourite piece from its SS ’20 collection. It’s retro and stylish as the proportions are so interesting – it’s feminine and avant-garde at the same time.
2. PRINTED DRESS, APC
APC doesn’t come up with many prints but when it does, it does it well. This minidress is so versatile and requires no complicated styling. Pair with sandals for a day at the beach or ’70s-inspired heels for a night out with friends.
3. STRIPED DRESS, MAISON KITSUNE
Pastel colours in bold stripes are really in this season, and this really nails it.
4. OVERSIZED TUXEDO, LEMAIRE
I love the fabric’s wet effect and how the jacket is tucked in. It’s not easy to pull off, but what a strong silhouette!
5. TEE, MADS NORGAARD
I chose this for the same reason as the Kitsune dress – the soft retro colours, which are very in now.
SURRENDER
Avant-garde - Street - Edgy
CHANG LING LIN, 25, MERCHANDISER
The SS ’20 Mood
There’s a playful, free and energetic spirit across most collections. Pastel colours, such as pink, blue and green, plus bandana prints in red and blue, are dominating. I think vintage, luxury streetwear is going to blow up in 2020 – think vintage bags (LV, Gucci, Fendi) paired with oversized ’80s tees, baggy ripped jeans, cropped tops, worn sneakers, and bucket hats. This trend has been steadily growing since FW ’19.
Surrender is at #01-03 268 Orchard Road (tel: 6733-2130), open daily from 11am - 9pm.
From top: Danielle Guizio; Kirin; We11Done
3 Names to Watch
WE11DONE: This new luxury streetwear brand is the in-house line of Rare Market, Korea’s hottest concept store by Dami Kwon (G-Dragon’s sister) and Jessica Jung, ex-member of Girls’ Generation. It’s known for its oversized fits, contemporary prints and gender-fluid pieces.
DANIELLE GUIZIO: The New York-based designer’s eponymous label is all the rage on IG, seen on Kylie and Kendall Jenner, Priyanka Chopra, Ariana Grande etc. Her pieces are known to be comfortable, channelling the best of luxury athleisure and vintage pieces.
KIRIN: Founded by Berlin-based South Korean DJ Peggy Gou, aka Virgil Abloh’s muse, the brand showcases her personal style. Expect bold colour blocking and club culture graphics.
5 KEY PIECES
1. DISTRESSED JEANS, DANIELLE GUIZIO
Jeans are a staple, and the brand’s versions are regularly seen on celebs. They are incredibly comfy and fit perfectly.
2. LOGO JACKET WITH BOW BELT, PALM ANGELS
Dubbed the go-to hype brand of the moment, the label is known for its skate culture aesthetic. This leather jacket showcases its iconic logo – in line with the current logo mania trend.
3. LACE-UP BUSTIER TOP, DANIELLE GUIZIO
Bustiers are a highlight of the vintage luxury trend, which is set to peak in SS’20. This one is in satin, which means it’s comfortable and gives a slimming effect.
4. PILL CHARM EARRING, AMBUSH
The mismatched earring trend is here to stay, and this design adds an edge to any look. Best paired with a mini stud opposite.
5. NANO DAILY BAG, READYMADE
The Japanese label has garnered a cult-like status for its bags. This is a classic piece that goes well with any outfit with a streetwear element.
PHOTOS OF NINA CABELA & CHANG LING LIN PHYLLICIA WANG
HAIR & MAKEUP AUDREY WEE
STYLIST DEBBY KWONG
