PUBLISHED April 3rd, 2014 01:00 am | UPDATED July 22nd, 2024 03:27 pm
2014 might be set to be the year of the artisanal crafts, with the inaugural Made in SG Market last month featuring the work of some very talented craftsmen. Organised by the Makers of Singapore movement, the impressive turnout hints to us that the public indeed has a demand for handcrafted products of pristine quality. For the style-conscious men who are tired of buying mass-produced apparels, we share 5 makers that dedicate their passions to producing stylish items for the modern gent.
1. Vanda Fine Clothing
What began as an online business selling hand-sewn pocket squares and neckties resulted in two people finding their calling: to offer classic menswear in timeless designs that rival the best in the market. This couple-run haberdashery source their fabrics (including the gorgeous kimono silk) from the world over, using only the very finest to ensure top-notch standards for their highly discerning clients. Gerald and Diana recently expanded their range of services to include bespoke shirt-making after honing their skills for several years, employing purely traditional methods of construction. The pair also offers hand-embroidered monograms as well intricately moulded orchid lapel pins in a myriad of colours.
Vanda Fine Clothing is located at 1014 Geylang East Ave 3 #02-218, Singapore 389729. See their website here.
2. Ed Et Al
Goodyear-welted leather dress shoes are the uncontested speciality of ‘Ed and others’. Focusing on the quintessential elements of shoe design – quality materials, meticulous construction and workmanship, and classic design – along with the desire to provide good shoes at affordable prices, the company has since released 5 collections in their ready-to-wear range. While some shoemakers may come up with boring names for their products, Ed Et Al stays true to their Singaporean roots, choosing to name their footwear after local icons like the Esplanade, Merlion, and Sentosa. Made-to-order and bespoke shoes are also available.
Ed Et Al is located at 55B Boat Quay, Singapore 049844 and Millennia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd #01-67, Singapore 039596. See their website here.
3. The J.Myers Company
Self-taught leather craftsman Jeremiah Ang is uncompromising when it comes to the quality of his work. Each stitch and detail of his products is looked over with intense scrutiny, and he prides himself on the mastery of his craft. Tucked away in vibrant Chinatown, his contrastingly quiet workshop produces an assortment of handcrafted leather goods for his clientele. Orders include customised belts, cuffs, watch and camera straps, document holders, clutches, phone cases, card cases and wallets.
The J.Myers Company is located at 5 Banda Street #03-90B, Singapore 050005, by appointment only. See their website here.
4. HyperGrand
We all know that quality is expensive, which explains the huge price gap between fashion watches and luxury watches. That is why Leroy Zhong, designer and engineer behind homegrown watch company HyperGrand, decided to combine the qualities of both ranges in a more affordable product, resulting in unique timepiece designs that maintain the finesse of classic wristwatches. Their products are assembled with impeccable standards of craftsmanship and quality, making them the most exported local watch label of late.
HyperGrand is stocked at a large number of stores in Singapore. For a full list, see their website here.
5. Gnome & Bow
Dapper gentlemen can now tell stories—timeless stories like The Wizard of Oz and even The Da Vinci Code—with their bags. At least, that is what Quanda Ong of Gnome & Bow intends to carry out following the inaugural production run of his first collection: The Hare & the Flying Tortoise. Available as a folio, briefcase, bag-pack, or duffel, you’ll discover clever and subtle details that reveal a story you’ll find familiar, but with something different you’ve yet to encounter.
Gnome & Bow is currently in its crowd-funding stage, so head over here to see their available models and pledge your support!
Written by Grimlay