Be cool, casual and still look good!

We’re on a tropical island, so being cool is the name of the game! Here are some casual fashion pieces for men’s and women’s clothes for those chilled times when you still want to look good. And always finish it off with that piece of jewellery (or two) you love!

Here are a few outfit ideas that will help you look fab without the formalities!

• Stick to relaxed silhouettes and longer hemlines.
• When in doubt, ensure one piece or item in your getup is a wardrobe staple, be it a pair of fitted jeans, a tailored white shirt or a simple slip dress.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with colours. Be sure to pick a neutral colour to offset a bright outfit, and vice-versa.
• Prints are a great way to amp up the fun in a boring getup.
• No getup is complete without an accessory. Elevate your style with one statement piece such as a scarf, bag or necklace.

By Invite Only

Find that you get itchy or painful earlobes the moment you don a pair of earrings? Then check out sustainable jewellery label By Invite Only.

The label was started in 2009, when founder Trixie Khong began creating her designs without nickel, lead or cadmium (also known as the toxic three!) so she could wear them herself. Khong, who has been living with sensitive and eczema-prone skin, hopes to give customers – including those with sensitive skin – the freedom to safely express their identity and style.

The website carries a broad range of jewellery, from the usual earrings and ear cuffs (for those who don’t have piercings!), rings and necklaces to the more unusual multi-way mask chains. Designs are ultramodern and minimalist, making it the perfect complement to everyday wear. The mini horseshoes in sparkly cubic zirconia and pendants inspired by Moroccan tiles will look cute even on a dressed-down day.

Even more impressive: the brand has done away with all plastic in its packaging and uses ethical suppliers to manufacture its pieces; it also neutralises shipping emissions for every order. This means working only with factories that are members of the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), by demonstrating a commitment to human and labour rights.

By Invite Only is available at VivoCity, ION Orchard, Wisma Atria, Somerset@313 and Bugis Junction.

White Ginger

For something that balances classic styles with fun trends, look no further than White Ginger. The brand, which has been dressing the island for over a decade, has only a few items in each design so you won’t be facing a “Who Wore It Better” dilemma!

White Ginger has several dresses to get you through Singapore’s tropical weather. We’re absolutely loving the Harlow dress – it’s made in the breeziest lightweight fabrics, with front slits for extra ventilation. Meanwhile, the Stella is perfect for Sundays at home or sunny days by the beach, while the latest Issy dress – which you can just slip in and out of – takes the word “effortless” to a whole other level. Choose bright pops of colour to turn up the fun a notch.

If you’re going for a mix-and-match option, a pair of fun, printed shorts (made from the comfiest of stretch cotton) worn with a crisp white shirt always does the trick.

White Ginger is available at Tanglin Mall. white-ginger.com

Fly Flot

Of course, comfort reigns supreme when it comes to footwear. And for days when you need a little more cushioning, check out Fly Flot.

This shoe brand, which has been manufactured by the Migliorati family in Italy since 1986, has an “anti-shock, anatomic, auto-shaping and anti-skid” ethos. Its Tomaia Stretch feature enables the shoe to adapt to the shape of the foot, and will magically transform it into second skin. Couple this with a light, breathable material and colours, and you’ve got a range of casual shoes that feel great in any weather or for any shindig.

flyflot.com.sg

Forest

Here’s one Forest that we’d love to have in our wardrobes! Founded in 2018, this brand offers polished pieces in quality materials and the highest level of workmanship. Their beautiful brooches have caught our eyes, but it’s the silk scarves and cashmere shawls that would add a touch of effortless elegance to any outfit.

Bold designs in rich colours can never go wrong. Just look at their batik stole – made from a hundred percent pure silk with hand-rolled finishing details, it’s a modern take on traditional Javanese batik featuring age-old motifs. There’s also the über cool merino wool and silk shawl in bold Op Art graphics. Cinch your waist with a minimalist belt and you’re all ready to strut the catwalk that is life, honey.

Forest also has a range of twilly scarves in gorgeous colours and prints. These are long, skinny scarves that can be worn a gazillion ways. Loop one around your wrist or around your neck like a silky necklace, and watch your outfit transform from meh to marvellous.

Find Forest fashions at #03-48 Paragon Shopping Centre. shopatforest.com

This article first appeared in the November 2021 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!

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