#max tan

Model: Yihan Si

Photo: Gavin Yeoh

SG50 Special: Max Tan

When I was making a vague attempt to remember notable budding designers in Singapore, one name had surfaced several times in my limited memory - Max Tan. Though a couple of years have passed, Max is still a spring chicken amongst old crones. Ideas do not wear thin with this youthful powerhouse as he explores his penchant for gender roles - feminine / masculine power plays that unravel whenever he ventures into familiar territory. With the stoic background of white and black, the polarity is clear; Max Tan as a brand is steadfast in its vision and can only be described as gorgeous tributes to opposing forces that will only leave you bowled over and charmed by its eccentricities.

Max’s devotion to the aesthetics does not compromise on the garment’s wearability, opting to thread lightly in his collection. With the fairly new store at Capitol Piazza, Singapore (formerly the Capitol Theatre) - it is reassuring we can take comfort in the support rendered to local talents. There’s an irreverent take on bold silhouettes that makes this vehicle perfect for invigorating the local fashion scene. Just as Frederick Lee and Thomas Wee had taken flight in the local fashion industry years ago, I believe Max Tan will become an auteur in his own write in Singapore fashion literature. 

MAX TAN