Q & A
Mr Eugene Siow, 21, is a freelance photographer who has done commercial work for clients such as Uniqlo and Spotify.
How would you describe your style?
Mostly minimalist and sometimes distressed, such as ripped jeans and frayed hems. In Singapore, you see a lot of guys who are dressed in a shirt and jacket with slicked-back hair - it is overrated and mundane.
When did your interest in fashion start?
I started browsing content-sharing site Tumblr when I was 14 and stumbled on incredible fashion editorial photos that opened my eyes to fashion.
I cannot remember which publications they were from, but the photos were in the styles that I like - grungy or slick, clean and minimalist.
Who are your favourite designers and go-to brands?
Belgian designer Ann Demeulemeester for her punk-inspired and unconventional designs; South Korean designer Juun.J for his minimalistic yet structural designs; and Italian leather goods brand Guidi for its artisanal approach and the reimagining of classics.
Who are your style icons?
I don't look up to anyone for style, but there are stylish people on Instagram whom I appreciate and follow, such as Dany Dos Santos (@alkarus) of Paris-based fashion brand Drole de Monsieur for his flair for styling minimal pieces and making them into statement looks; and New York-based creative Peter Do (@peterxdo) for his artistic eye and minimalist black-and-white photography.
What are your favourite pieces in your wardrobe?
My distressed leather shoulder bag (photo 1) from Guidi because it is the perfect size for my daily belongings and it goes with all my outfits; my Ann Demeulemeester boots (photo 2) with zips, which I wear almost every day because I think they add character to my outfits; my Myrrh hoop earrings (photo 3) because they go with everything I wear and I don't take them off even when I shower or sleep.
I have also not taken off my hook bangle (photo 4) from German jewellery brand Werkstatt Munchen since I bought it three to four years ago. I like it because it is simple and unique.
Lastly, my brandless leather biker jacket (photo 5), which I bought in Seoul last month. When in doubt about what to wear, I just put on a biker jacket, white T-shirt and a pair of jeans.
What are your weaknesses when it comes to shopping?
Anything that is unique which I think I cannot find elsewhere.
What is your favourite splurge piece?
My distressed leather shoulder bag from Guidi, which I bought for $750.
Is there a purchase you have regretted?
Too many. I used to be impulsive and bought anything that I liked. I have since learnt to be a lot more selective as I realise I have too many items that I have used only once.
What is your most recent fashion purchase?
My zipper sweatshirt (photo 6) from Korean fashion brand Ader Error, which I bought for $155 in South Korea last month. I like its design and affordable price.
What is the best shopping or style advice you live by?
Follow trends, but interpret them in your own way.
