Just Because
Move over, Zara. H&M’s higher-end sister label COS (short for Collection of Style) is opening its first Southeast Asian store— said to spread across a good 5,900 sq. ft.—at ION Orchard in November, and we’re readying our wardrobe and wallets for their effortlessly cool, minimalist-chic new arrivals. A second store is also expected to be launched towards the end of the year at the new Westgate mall in Jurong East. Lucky Westies!
On the Line
Singapore can now boast its own Net-A-Porter (OK, maybe on a much smaller scale), thanks to tastemakers Bryan Tan and Esther Wee, founders of new global online fashion retailer Modajar.com. In case you’re thinking it’s one of those rampant same-same blogshops with identical goods, the cool site stocks pieces from established and emerging designers including House of Holland, LIE by Lie Sang Bong, Hartford and Mauro Gasperi—all of which are edgy, fashion-forward stuff that conjure the Antwerp Six. Plus, collections are sourced directly from designers, which mean they are available at the same time as top international boutiques.
On the Flip Side
After a few much-raved-about collabs with H&M and G-shock, Maison Martin Margiela has teamed up with Converse for a new sneaker collection. The all-white, handpainted Chuck Taylor All Star and Jack Purcell look just like our regular school kicks, except that the outer coat of paint is made to eventually crack and shed overtime, revealing the original red, black, navy or vintage yellow canvas underneath. $269.90, available exclusively at Surrender.
Clutch Moments
Multi-label store MYthology has recently launched its new collection of accessories, and among it is Beirut-based label Sarah’s bags ($250). Not only does the brand produce gorgeous pieces that rival some four-figure Alexander McQueens, it also employs underprivileged female prison workers—with the goal of helping them hone a new skill set and gain meaningful employment.
