In 2012, veteran designer Alfie Leong decided to strengthen the support for local fashion designers. He launched the Workshop Element (W.E.), an establishment that prides itself on representing local designers as a singular, cohesive collective. The workshop – with its concept of rigorous work, experimentation, and growth – was Alfie’s way of giving back to the industry after having spent 20 years in it.
Alfie’s latest accolade is the prestigious President’s Design Award for which he was awarded Designer of the Year, 2013. His continual support for young, local emerging fashion talents and his tireless pursuit of developing Singapore’s fashion industry was recognised and
celebrated.
Alfie ends this year with yet another milestone. Officially launching on 13 December, W.E. now joins the Westgate, the newest mall to join the bustling scene in Jurong East. The store occupies a spacious area of 6000 square feet, with white-washed interior that is raw, minimal, and unobtrusive, allowing fashion to take centre stage.
“Young designers should be modest and stay that way. They should always empty their glasses and refill it, in order to absorb more and continue to learn new things,” said Alfie.
Presenting an all-local ensemble of 19 local labels and two curators, W.E. brings together designers old and new. A good mix of veterans like Mù/A.W.O.L.’s Alfie Leong and Womb’s K.Mi are featured alongside young, prolific names like Jaunty Boys and Emblem, while new upstarts like Yesah are given equal opportunity to shine and grow.
Visit the Workshop Element (W.E.) at Level 1-34/35, Westgate (3 Gateway Drive). Opening hours are from Monday to Sunday: 11.00 am to 10.00 pm.