Singapore couturier Goh Lai Chan has been creating glamorous gowns and cheongsam for almost three decades, but the 56-year-old still derives much joy from designing and making clothes.

"My mind is always on work. I really love what I do. Even when I'm shopping, the clothes I see inspire me, or when I'm relaxing at home, I'll think of something new and have to note it down," says the designer and owner of the label Laichan, who works 11 hours a day, six days a week.