Keepers Singapore Designer Trunk Show Weekend

The Keepers Singapore Designer Trunk Show is happening this weekend from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st October, 11am to 7pm at the National Design Centre on Level 2. M5 & I headed over on the first day for a whirlwind shopping spree.

First we looked for Carolyn Kan herself to find out more about this multi-brand extravangaza she had put together. Her previous events had focused on more accessible local designers. This time, she wanted to create a special platform for bespoke creations. Consequently, the Keepers Singapore Designer Trunk Show was conceptualized.

Carrie K Pearl Bar

At her eponymous Carrie K atelier, Carolyn showed me her range of fun & fine jewellery collections. I gravitated towards the pearl bar because I’m in love with the idea that the pearl is a gem produced by a living organism.

You see, pearls are formed when a mollusk produces a nacre around an irritant in its shell. Saltwater pearls include South Sea pearls which are the largest pearls, as well as Akoya pearls which are generally small and round. Freshwater pearls tend to have a thicker nacre than akoya pearls. Carrie’s pearl bar had them all.

She showed me a necklace of pearls and jade beads. By attaching a clip, or other accoutrements, the necklace transforms in look & feel. It was so captivating that I was sold. More accurately, that necklace was sold. I couldn’t wait to try out some of the variations.

Fascinating Fascinators

Carrie and I went to the auditorium where we said hello to Ying, whose brand Ying The Label features her gorgeous paintings. M5 & I oohed over Jo Kilda’s set-up, as and aahed over the sewing corner displayed by Time Taken To Make A Dress. We were especially fascinated by fascinators from Eskpade and I made off with a red one with a black net.

Always Room for More

In the next room, M5 literally burst into the scene through the rack at Ans.Ein. The kind designer explained she created clothes & belts that could be worn in various ways. She even handed M5 a picture & some magic pens, and encouraged her to design her own dress. In fact, that picture could be printed onto fabric and made into a bespoke dress. It was literally, wearable art. M5 had a grand time.

While my daughter was busy honing her design skills, I discovered two more local labels which were new to me. One was Gin Lee, whose dresses had remarkably flattering silhouettes. Although there were customizable options, I decided on an off-the-rack pleated dress as is. The other was Vilry.co, whose racks were bursting with so many lovely pieces, I had quite a difficult time pulling myself away.

Finders Keepers

Had I not had meetings, I would have lingered at the stations showcasing artisanal perfumes, ice-cream and sake. If you have time this weekend, do drop by the Keepers Singapore Designer Trunk Show. Whether you’re finding out about interesting craftsmen while browsing, or buying something bespoke for keeps, it’s great fun. Be inspired & encouraged, just like my daughter.