Latest news with #ZantzHan
Vogue Singapore
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
Meet the designers behind the custom looks for Vogue Singapore's ‘Home' issue cover shoot
Zantz Han For our July/August issue, we take a deep dive right into the crux of home. What does home mean to you? On a seemingly humble scale, it could be the comfort of a warm dinner with your family after a long day—served on the same dishware that's been passed down for years, with intricate details and every sign of being well-loved. On a larger scale, home could mean community—especially within Southeast Asia. Travelling to neighbouring countries and still finding slices of your own culture a few hundred miles away: in the food, the language, and even in the way people dress. And what better way to pay tribute to the idea of home than by spotlighting regional designers who've made it their mission to honour heritage while rethinking it for today. Across custom pieces, archival finds and modern reinterpretations, these five designers shaped the looks for our shoot—each one carrying a distinct piece of tradition. Together, these pieces come together to craft a vibrant visual feast of heritage, seen through a dynamic Southeast Asian lens. Below, we spotlight and delve deeper into the five visionaries and their designs, each bringing their own distinct take on melding heritage with the pulse of today. Zantz Han 1 / 5 Adeline Esther Adeline Esther is an Indonesian fashion designer celebrated for her couture creations that blend traditional craftsmanship with fresh, avant-garde aesthetics. A graduate of ESMOD Jakarta, she founded her eponymous label in 2016, quickly gaining attention for her intricate designs and attention to detail. Her work often features structural silhouettes, elaborate embellishments, and a keen sense of experiment. In 2024, she debuted at Plaza Indonesia Fashion Week with the 'Mercurial' collection, showcasing 15 sequin-heavy gowns that shimmered like molten mercury. For the cover shoot, Esther presents two custom creations: a bridal-inspired ensemble embroidered with delicate gold threads and a coordinating headpiece, alongside a voluminous floral skirt paired with a sharply tailored black jacket—a subtle nod to the enduring East-meets-West silhouette. Shop Ester. Zantz Han 2 / 5 Behati Behati is a Malaysian fashion brand founded by designer Kel Wen in 2018, aiming to redefine traditional Malaysian attire for the modern era. The name Behati meaning 'heart' or 'blessing' in Malay, reflects the brand's philosophy of infusing cultural heritage with contemporary design. Kel Wen's background in fashion design and his diverse upbringing in Melaka, Malaysia, influenced his appreciation for the country's multiracial society. Behati's collections often feature reinterpretations of traditional garments like the Baju Melayu and sarees, incorporating modern fabrics and silhouettes to appeal to a younger, fashion-forward audience. The brand has gained recognition for its innovative approach to cultural wear, blending elements from various Malaysian ethnic groups to create a cohesive and inclusive fashion narrative. Behati's designs have been showcased at Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week and have attracted a growing following among millennials and Gen Z consumers. The cover shoot sees the Malaysian designer once again pushing boundaries with bold designs that play with proportion, plus a daring, translucent peekaboo peony piece that reimagines the floral emblem with fresh, edgy flair. Shop Behati. Zantz Han 3 / 5 Laichan Local designer Laichan Goh—often hailed as the 'godfather of modern cheongsam'—was instrumental in reshaping traditional Chinese attire in Singapore with his figure-flattering cuts and a seamless blend of classic and contemporary styles. Since launching The Dress Shop in the '80s and later establishing a presence at Raffles Hotel Arcade in 1991, Laichan's elegant qipaos became synonymous with vintage glamour. After his recent passing, his visionary legacy lives on as his brother, Eddie Goh, now helms the label, carrying forward the delicate balance of heritage and modernity that defined Laichan's work. The spread features the local visionary's makings in the form of a striking red qipao worn by Zoe Tay , channelling the perfect dose of retro sophistication. Shop Laichan. Zantz Han 4 / 5 Toton Also from Indonesia, Toton Januar is a designer renowned for his ability to merge familiar Indonesian textiles with modish silhouettes. Born in Makassar and raised by his seamstress mother, Toton developed a passion for design early on. Initially pursuing civil engineering, he later switched to Media Broadcasting and eventually studied Fashion at Parsons New School of Design in New York. In 2012, he co-founded the brand Toton with Haryo Balitar, aiming to reinterpret Indonesia's rich cultural heritage through contemporary fashion. His designs often incorporate traditional fabrics like Batik and Ikat, reimagined in modern cuts and styles. Toton's work has been showcased at international platforms such as Paris Fashion Week and Tokyo Fashion Week. His commitment to sustainability and ethical practices has also garnered attention, with collections that emphasise artistry and cultural preservation. For our 'Home' issue, Toton reinterprets the kebaya with intricate lacework and modern cuts, offering a softer, romantic take on heritage dressing. Shop Toton the Label. Zantz Han 5 / 5 Raymond Wong Raymond Wong is a Singaporean fashion designer and founder of Rumah Kim Choo, known for his expertise in traditional Peranakan attire. Wong's passion for preserving Peranakan heritage has led him to acquire and restore these garments, ensuring that the intricate beadwork, embroidery, and craftsmanship are maintained for future generations. His work serves as a bridge between the past and present, highlighting the rich cultural history of the Peranakan community in Singapore. Through his collections and exhibitions, Raymond Wong has contributed significantly to the appreciation and understanding of Peranakan fashion and its importance in our local multicultural tapestry. Anchoring the cover shoot is a vibrant piece of living history—a rare 1965 koon , a traditional Peranakan wedding garment from the local designer. Shop Rumah Kim Choo. Vogue Singapore's July/August 'Home' issue will be out on newsstands from 13 July and available to preorder online.
Vogue Singapore
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
Tasha Low on culture, craft and chasing her own rhythm
There's a certain je ne sais quoi about Tasha Low, one that has carried her through many renditions of her creative career, with a spark that has captivated fans all over the world. And it's no wonder. At 31 years old—she turns 32 in October—the starlet, known for her doe eyes, signature locks and cherub-like visage, has showbiz in her blood, having started dancing at the tender age of two. On the beauty front, fermented rice water was traditionally used to cool the skin. Known as Bedak Sejuk or 'cold powder', it is believed to have brightening and smoothing qualities. Bee de Chaumet earrings and L'Épi de Blé de Chaumet necklace; Laichan dress. Zantz Han 'Dance was my first language of expression,' she notes. 'My father taught me ballroom dancing when I was a toddler and it became our way of bonding. That foundation gave me confidence in movement and stage presence, which later became crucial for both singing and acting.' It was this early start that led Low to debut in the K-pop group Skarf, a chapter she credits with shaping much of who she is today, from instilling discipline and resilience to refining her craft. Still, she felt a strong pull to return to Singapore and delve into local stories. 'I've always been drawn to a more holistic form of performance, where music, movement and story all come together.' Floral motifs were a familiar sight in Peranakan design, often found on vases, tiles, and everyday objects around the home. Zantz Han It's this very pull that has brought her to our screens. In Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story —the sequel to Channel 8's 2008 series The Little Nyonya —Low stars in the role of Zhang Xin Niang, in a drama that traces the lives of the Zhang family, a Peranakan household living at Emerald Hill. 'Zhang Xin Niang is strong-willed, passionate and deeply loyal to her family, yet she's constantly torn between duty and desire,' reflects Low. 'What I love about her is that she's flawed and real. She's not just a product of her time, but someone trying to break free from it.' Apart from drawing 1.35 million viewers on Mediacorp platforms as well as holding on to Netflix's top 10 streamed shows, it's clear that Low's trajectory has been set for her. As for what's in store? She hopes to release more music soon, something close to her heart, and she'll be diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Here, she talks about her K-pop start, honing her craft and what lies on the horizon. Songket is a decorative weaving technique that uses gold or silver threads to form intricate motifs. Drawing inspiration from this heritage craft, Malaysian fashion designer Behati created a custom jacket, reinterpreting the tradition for the present day. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and bracelets; Behati jacket. Zantz Han Hi Tasha, thank you so much for joining us today. Tell us more about your beginnings in K-pop. The K-pop industry is extremely regimented; everything is planned down to the second. Coming back to Singapore, I had to adjust to a different rhythm where there was more space to contribute creatively. At first, the lack of structure felt unfamiliar, but I eventually found it refreshing. What felt familiar was the community; it's small here, and that closeness brings a different kind of warmth and support. Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story has been a massive success and a significant milestone in your acting career. What initially drew you to this project and how did you prepare? I was immediately drawn to the emotional depth of Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , and the role of Zhang Xin Niang was such a layered, complex character. It felt like a rare opportunity to explore heritage and identity in a way that was both personal and universal. To prepare, I dove deep into the culture: learning traditional practices, the language nuances and even some nyonya cooking. It wasn't just about playing a role; it was about honouring a legacy. Costumes were such a big part of stepping into Xin Niang's world. The intricate kebayas and accessories weren't just beautiful; they told a story of tradition, class and emotional nuance. Each piece helped me understand her status, her constraints and her quiet acts of rebellion. Another creation by Behati offers a playful twist on the peony, this time in a translucent, peekaboo style. It experiments with proportion and perspective, imagining the motif in a bolder, more daring way. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and rings; Behati bolero, coat and dress; Christian Louboutin shoes; socks, stylist's own. Zantz Han Working alongside your former Skarf bandmate, Ferlyn Wong, must have been a special experience. It was surreal and so special. Ferlyn and I have shared such a unique chapter of our lives together, so stepping onto set with her again felt both familiar and fresh. There was an unspoken trust between us, which made our scenes more intuitive. But we also had to remind ourselves that we were no longer bandmates onstage, we were actors telling a new story. Beyond Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , you've taken on a diverse range of acting projects. Is there a particular role or genre that you've enjoyed the most? I've loved exploring roles that sit in the grey areas; characters who are emotionally complex and morally conflicted. Those roles teach me a lot about empathy and about not judging people too quickly. Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story challenged me the most in terms of emotional stamina and cultural responsibility. I'd love to dive into psychological thrillers or period dramas with a modern lens. There's so much depth to explore in characters grappling with identity, history and desire. I also hope to work with directors who challenge their actors; people like Anthony Chen or even international voices like Park Chan-wook. Indonesian designer Toton reimagines the kebaya, merging the juxtaposition of fabrics and shape. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace, bracelets and ring; Toton top and skirt. Zantz Han What has been the biggest accomplishment or milestone in your career so far? Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story was definitely a turning point. Not just because of the recognition, but because I felt like I poured my heart into it. It was a full-circle moment when all the parts of my journey—dance, performance, language, culture—came together. My loved ones and my cats keep me grounded. I try to create pockets of quiet in a very loud industry, whether it's journalling, cuddling with my cats or just being in nature. Staying connected to my 'why' helps. I do this because I love stories, not because I want to chase perfection. How do you maintain your physical and mental well-being with such a demanding schedule? When I'm filming, the days are long and immersive. I wake early, head to set and stay focused until wrap. On my off days, I try to slow down. A perfect Sunday for me is sleeping in, playing with my cats, journalling and being near nature. Mentally, I give myself permission to rest. Physically, I keep active by hiking or playing badminton with friends, which are fun activities and keep me feeling strong. The use of flowers was thoughtful and intentional, with different blooms chosen for the meanings they held. Zantz Han If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Don't rush to become someone else's version of success. Trust your timing. And rest is not a weakness. What do you hope fans take away from your work? I hope they feel seen. Whether it's joy, heartbreak or growth, I want my work to make people feel less alone. That's the magic of performance to me. What are your long-term aspirations for your career in the entertainment industry, both locally and internationally? I hope to keep creating work that feels honest and grounded, whether that's in Singapore or beyond. I'd love to collaborate across cultures and languages, especially in projects that bring Asian stories to the global stage. There's a growing appreciation for local stories and talent, which is encouraging. But there's still room for risk-taking and deeper investment in the arts. I hope we continue to create space for nuanced storytelling and diverse voices. The richness of Peranakan culture can be found even in the intricate details of dishware—quietly emblematic of a heritage built on care and tradition. Zantz Han Tell us about your experience on our Vogue Singapore shoot, which was inspired by Peranakan culture as well. It was such a dream! Fashion is another way I get to express different sides of myself. The Vogue team made me feel bold and elegant, while still being me. I loved playing with textures and silhouettes I wouldn't normally wear. It was liberating. This issue is themed 'Home'. What does the word, in the context of Singapore and SG60, mean to you? Home is where the heart is, a safe space where my loved ones are. After spending years overseas, I've come to treasure the small things here: the smell of local food, the sound of Singlish, the familiarity of faces. Home is comfort. It's identity. SG60 is a moment to reflect on how far we've come as a nation and how much more we can grow, especially creatively. I hope the next chapter includes even more support for the arts and for stories that speak to the heart of who we are. Toton also draws inspiration from white lace kebayas, which gained popularity in the early 20th century among Peranakan, European and Eurasian women. Bee de Chaumet earrings, bracelets and ring, and L'Épi de Bléde Chaumet necklace; Toton top, corset and pants. Zantz Han What were some of your favourite memories growing up? Playing block catching with my cousins and running around void decks barefoot. Life felt simple and joy was everywhere. Those were the days before smartphones and they were magic. What's next? I'll be releasing more music soon—something close to my heart—and diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Personally, I'm learning to say yes to things that spark joy and no to things that don't. Photographer Zantz Han Stylists Desmond Lim and Nicholas See Hair stylist Ryan Yap/Passion Hair Salon Make-up artist Kim Manicurist Filicia Takahashi/Nail Bliss Producer David Bay Set design Abegail Loreno Arendayen Florist Fawn World Photographer's assistants Sin Yean Yam, RQ and Michelle Yap Manicurist's assistants Celine Tan and Summer Chong/Nail Bliss Set designer's assistant Clarice Teh Florist's assistant Rachel Ng Stylist's assistants Lance Aeron and Kuan Special thanks to True Blue Cuisine Vogue Singapore's July/August 'Home' issue will be out on newsstands from 13 July and available to preorder online.
Vogue Singapore
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
How UNIQLO's Mini T-Shirt is redefining versatility
In celebration of simplicity and versatility, UNIQLO and Vogue Singapore explore the many ways the Mini T-Shirt can be styled through the lens of real-life dressing. Comfort, ease and style converge in this essential piece, inviting you to embrace timeless wardrobe staples with effortless grace. With life in constant motion and scarcely a moment to decide what to wear, your wardrobe demands pieces that adapt to every moment. UNIQLO's LifeWear offers simple, high-quality clothing designed to make lives better as it adapts to the evolving needs and lifestyles of people. Each Mini T is supremely versatile and suits different needs and lifestyles —from busy mornings and dressing up for an impromptu meeting to winding down in casual comfort. These essentials transcend mere basics; they form the backbone of your closet and enable you to assemble confident, cohesive outfits with ease and intention. Alekhya wears Uniqlo mini short sleeve T-shirt, UV protection crew neck cardigan, straight jeans and dress skinny belt; Phoebe wears Uniqlo mini short sleeve raglan T-shirt, straight jeans and leather mesh belt Zantz Han From UNIQLO's LifeWear comes the Mini T-Shirt, a quietly confident piece that captures the essence of simplicity. Crafted from durable natural cotton in a clean, cropped silhouette, it adapts seamlessly to any wardrobe, offering comfort and versatility for everyday wear. The Mini T-Shirt goes beyond the classic cut with a variety of colors and design details, such as graphic stripes and raglan sleeves, offering fresh style options that suit different moods and personalities. Phoebe wears UNIQLO mini short sleeve T-shirt, mini polo shirt, zip up blouson, ultra stretch active shorts, socks and suede combination sneakers; Alekhya wears UNIQLO mini short sleeve striped T-shirt, UV protection crew neck cardigan, Milano ribbed flare skirt, socks and suede combination sneakers Zantz Han More than just an adaptable piece, the Mini T‐Shirt stands out for its quiet reliability. It provides a solid foundation for any wardrobe, proving that simplicity and style can coexist. Below, explore how the Vogue Singapore team styles the Mini T-Shirt with other timeless LifeWear pieces available at UNIQLO. Zantz Han 1 / 12 The Smart Casual For those who balance work and leisure in the city, this smart‐casual ensemble layers a lightweight linen button-up beneath a cropped Mini T-Shirt. The breathable linen button-up offers an office-appropriate foundation, while the Mini T-Shirt adds a casual edge. Together, they create an effortless look that carries you from casual meetings to after-hours plans while still looking refined. Zantz Han 2 / 12 Modern Minimalist For the modern minimalist who finds beauty in subtle details, this look pairs barrel-leg pants with a layered Mini T-Shirt and button-up—styled with intentional folds and scrunches that break away from rigid lines. Minimalism doesn't always mean perfectly pressed; here, texture and movement bring quiet character. Zantz Han 3 / 12 Everyday Ease A laid-back everyday look that highlights the Mini T-Shirt, styled as a standalone piece or with simple layering. Pair it with straight-leg jeans and a woven belt for a subtle detail—ideal for running errands, grabbing coffee, or enjoying a casual stroll. Zantz Han 4 / 12 Playful Layering Mix and match different hues of the Mini T-Shirt with oversized outerwear and fresh proportions. Layer a pastel Mini T-Shirt under a zip up blouson and pair it with tailored shorts and high socks. Or choose a striped Mini T-Shirt beneath a slouchy cardigan tied at the waist, finishing the look with a midi skirt and sneakers. Play with textures and silhouettes for an effortlessly chic, fashion-forward ensemble. 5 / 12 UNIQLO Mini Short Sleeve T-shirt, $14.90 Available at Uniqlo. 6 / 12 UNIQLO Mini Short Sleeve Striped T-shirt, $14.90 Available at Uniqlo. 7 / 12 UNIQLO Mini Short Sleeve Raglan T-shirt, $14.90 Available at Uniqlo. 8 / 12 UNIQLO Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, $49.90 Available at Uniqlo. 9 / 12 UNIQLO Jersey Barrel Leg Pants, $49.90 Available at Uniqlo. 10 / 12 UNIQLO Straight Jeans, $59.90 Available at Uniqlo. 11 / 12 UNIQLO Ultra Stretch Active Shorts, $29.90 Available at Uniqlo. 12 / 12 UNIQLO Zip Up Blouson, $59.90 Available at Uniqlo. Photography Zantz Han Styling Lance Aeron Hair Junz Loke Make-up Kenneth Chia Manicure Ann Lim Stylist's assistant Jamie Wee
