Talk of Town is becoming – you guessed it! – the talk of the town, as a boutique in Singapore offering both designer brand ladies apparel – from embellished denim to sun dresses – and demi-fine jewellery. We speak with founder ALIYA DOSSA about the distinctive clothing and permanent jewellery that make it stand out from other stores, and how they can serve as great Valentine’s day gifts!
How did you get the idea for starting Talk of Town boutique in Singapore?
My demi-fine jewellery brand Fervor Montréal was already successful in selling on board airlines and in airports, department stores and independent boutiques worldwide when I noticed that there were no brands selling Canadian ladies’ apparel in Singapore. I began my journey with apparel made in Canada at Takashimaya; it steadily grew to include American and European brands.
This was how Talk of Town boutique was born, as an avenue for us to bring in the best of North American and European brands. At the same time, it fulfils my desire to start up Singapore’s first Sparking Studio under our existing brand, Fervor Montréal, offering a distinctive concept of permanent jewellery.
And why Tanglin Mall?
The newly revamped Tanglin Mall was the perfect address for our boutique with its customer profile and new outlook. While both our outlets carry some of the same lines, the assortment varies in order to bring novelty to our Takashimaya and Tanglin Mall clientele alike.
Tell us about the designer lines available in the boutique.
We have 10 designer lines and are continuing to grow them as we speak. We only work with designer brands that offer us exclusivity in a distributorship. While each and every brand we carry is distinctive in its style, there are a few that stand out:
# UP! Pants Made in Montréal, Canada, this line has been formulated to offer a “built-in tummy control” fit. Many curvy women struggle to find a trendy pair of pants that fit just right in Singapore. This designer line offers a flattering fit with comfortable stretch fabrics and pull-on tummy control technology. We bring in sizes 2 to 12 with a pre-order option for bigger sizes.
# Karmamia A Danish designer brand made using eco-friendly faux silk fabric in a variety of prints and patterns, Karmamia prides itself on its easy-to-wear and easy-to-wash line of clothing. The blouses from the range pair well with the UP! Pants and are popular at Talk of Town.
# Miss June A Parisian designer brand, and also our bestselling brand in-store, Miss June comes in one-size-fits-all, offering a flattering look at any size. If you’re in search of an exotic adventure in style, look for these bohemian creations full of sequins, embroidery, pearls and rustling fabrics.
Can you elaborate more on your distinctive “permanent jewellery” concept offered at your Sparking Studio?
Talk of Town boutique features Singapore’s first and only Sparking Studio, and the concept allows clients to make a selection from a choice of sterling silver, 10k gold, 14k gold and 18k gold chains to suit their budget. They also have the opportunity to add charms – be it a gemstone, diamond or even a 14k gold dangle charm as an add-on.
Our highly trained “Sparker” then proceeds to fuse together both ends of the chain via safe laser arc technology. For added safety, the client must wear a pair of sanitised “welding” glasses to protect their eyes during the process.
Our Sparkers test the purity of the gold before they begin the process to assure the client of its authenticity. Once the process is over, we present the client with a fill-out Information card containing details of their “spark” and how to care for their jewellery. Sparking is a great idea for a gift between friends, colleagues, family members, partners or even just for yourself, and for any occasion, from a birthday or graduation gift, to an anniversary or Valentine’s Day.
The whole process is an experience in itself. Should the client wish to have the bracelet removed for any reason such as for a medical procedure, we offer a complimentary cut and re-spark service.
How does permanent jewellery stand out as a gift for a partner or loved one?
It signifies a “bond”, in that it never comes off and stays on for eternity. The add-on charms can be used to tell a story too.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, what are some examples of great jewellery items that couples can get for each other?
At the moment, we’re only offering Sparking for women, but we also plan on introducing chains for men in the near future. The permanent bracelet is an expression of everlasting love and a bond that will never break, so it’s the perfect gift for Valentine’s and “Galentine’s” Day.
Anything new on the horizon we should be looking for?
Definitely! At present, while we only offer the Sparking Studio permanent jewellery service for bracelets, our necklaces and anklets will become available in the near future.
What’s your vision for Talk of Town boutique?
To become the boutique of choice for all your Valentine’s day gifting needs and a place you, as a shopper, wouldn’t want to miss when searching for holiday wear, casual wear, resort wear or a look for any occasion, as we have a great variety all under one umbrella.
#02-145 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road
8186 0702 tanglinmall.com.sg/shop/talk-of-town
This article first appeared in the January 2023 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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