“About five years ago, I started becoming more aware of the need to reduce my use of single-use plastic, and started carrying a flask around to buy coffee. The drive to cultivate more eco-friendly habits has extended to other facets of my life, including what I wear.
I return the bulk of the clothes I wear for public appearances to the fashion labels, and I like brands such as Esse The Label and theKANG because they have their finger on the pulse of sustainability.
“We need to check our buying habits and find simpler and kinder ways to live”
Along with green fabrics made from renewable fibres like lyocell and linen, Esse uses rescued leftover fabric to make its comfortable and easy-to-wear pieces. I like theKANG because of the designer’s innovative use of unconventional materials: Damaged vinyl records are given a second life as cuff-style rings, while brooches are made from fused plastic, created by heat-fusing layers of plastic bags.”
Esse The Label
This brand makes maxi dresses, shirtdresses, paper-bag pants and wrap tops using sustainable fabrics and cloth saved from the landfill. The clothes are made in Ho Chi Minh City and Chiang Mai in factories that actively support fair-trade practices.
theKANG
Designer Heng Kang Yong creates colourful and statement-making accessories like pleated earrings, cuffs and clutches derived from unwanted plastic bags.
3 questions with Wykidd Song
One of Singapore’s best-known designers gives us the lowdown on his new label, AKINN
1. Why did you decide to launch AKINN?
I wanted to start a brand that disrupts the usual fashion cycle. We release six capsules with just over 10 designs each per year. This not only reduces waste but allows me to prioritise telling the stories of people that inspire me through my designs.
2. What is AKINN’s design ethos?
By combining storytelling with great craftsmanship and timeless design, AKINN aims to cultivate responsible retail habits through clothes that endure past trends or seasons.
3. Why did you launch AKINN in Singapore?
Singapore is my home. This is where I know things will be executed to high standards, whether that’s design and photography, or branding and communication.
“The Social Space is a socially-conscious multi-concept store with a cafe, florist and nail salon” — Beth Soh, Flight Stewardess
SEE ALSO: These homegrown beauty brands will help you achieve a red carpet ready look
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