Singapore’s new darling might just be Manifesto (FB/Instagram). A break away from big fashion retailers, this addition to the revamped Capitol Piazza is a multi-brand fashion and lifestyle store unique in every sense.
From the mind of French fashion designer Walid Zaazaa, the very interior of the store itself grabs your curiosity immediately. It is a minimalistic, open space with playful geometrics and an eye-catching corner right at back where he jokingly mentioned that that is where he would lounge, and probably go through a couple of games on a PS4.
What’s amazing is what the store carries. More than half the store is stocked with brands new to Singapore (or the region as a whole). They were all handpicked by Zaazaa, himself. He enthused about his travels, and how his exploration in the U.S., France, Japan and more has helped him shape the inventory.
Men or women, whatever your price point, there will be something for you. On top of big names like Thakoon and Barbara Bui, smaller cult brands like Paris menswear U-NI-TY and house of high-quality essentials, American Vintage, joins his long list of contemporary fashion offerings.
In an interview, Zaazaa revealed that Maison Kitsune actually contacted them to launch in Singapore. Known for their quirky, child-like prints to clean-cut basics, they even have iPhone cases for those wanting to add a touch of whimsy without breaking the bank. Another noteworthy brand for the ladies is Avelon. This Amsterdam brand takes sophisticated luxury with a raw edge. Favourites of mine include their crazy play with materials in the Bambe jacket and the stunning pleated georgette skirt, Dynasty – both available in-store.
Fashion is limited, but style is limitless. The store is decked out in tons of accessories for you to play with. Shade your eyes with sunglasses from INARI, Phillip Lim or Linda Farrow and dress up your look with Stan Smith for Adidas, sleek heels from Premiata or Briston’s gentlemanly Chronograph watches.
As if tell-tale of Zaazaa’s playful personality, he brings in lifestyle products like Meet the Pugs series of cards and notebooks that are sure to bring to smile to even the grumpiest of friends. There are also ear phones, sound systems and psychedelic space-themed cushions from Japan. This corner at Capitol also joins my list of places to check out for new scents. Besides Diptyque, there is also my new favourite, the Red Musc Eau de Toilette from MAD et LEN. This floral, woody musk is easy on the nose yet unique, and is suitable for both men and women.
Manifesto is a destination. With a new feature every month, there is something to discover and learn. It does not try hard to impress, it just aims to do things right. Following no trend but his own aesthetics for the contemporary, he brings in simple, effortless pieces customers regardless of age, price point or style can appreciate. Perfect even for gift shopping, he balances the stoic fashion collections with quirky lifestyle items. Strange at first, but it would not be long before you build up a wish-list.
Manifesto is located at Capitol Piazza Mall #02-19, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore (next to Marimekko).
