How often to you hear of a new store devoted to menswear opening in Singapore? And what more if it features mostly local brand and talents.

So the news of the opening of First Storey immediately calls for my attention.

First Storey is a multi-label menswear pop-up store that brings together a band of brands that are conceived and crafted by Singaporeans, and located not in the main shopping district of Singapore but in an old nostalgic pre-war conservative area called Tiong Bahru Estate. The motley gathering is both a reflection of the current creative mood of the neighbourhood and an attempt to showcase the pluralistic nature of artistic expression in Singapore.

First Storey is boutique, art gallery, and vintage store, all rolled into a spirited amalgamation that can be best described as “indie”. The artistic space is dedicated to the very best of budding talents and crafted designs, all showcased in “living rooms,” where both brand creators as well as customers are welcome to mingle and explore ideas. Fashion takes its pride of place here, surrounded by the attendant products that make fashionable life a joy and a treat.

Presently, the following 16 brands are housed in First Storey. They are selected for their unique voices, their dedication to their craft, and their unwavering support for the lively Singapore design scene.

Accessories

  • CarryallJames (totes)
  • The RegiMen (bags)
  • Fabrix (satchels and sundry)
  • Absolute Asia (small leather goods)
  • Crocodile (belts)

Clothing

  • Coupe-Cousu
  • Jaunty Boys
  • Atias
  • Steel
  • Mr Howard
  • Mixed
  • Crocodile
  • Mils

Art and Decorative Items

  • Andre Tan
  • IEX Asian Heritage
  • He Wears It by John Woo

Sectioned into three rooms, the store opens into an accessories space that showcases some of the best in bags and cases, followed by two areas for clothing as well as art and decorative items. These rooms are all linked by an open- air ‘corridor’ that constantly allows the outside (and sunlight) to share the inside.

If you are so curious as I am, I suggest to check out First Storey as soon as you can, because as a pop-up store, it will now be there permanently. First Storey will bid adieu at the end of January 2013… maybe there will be a Second Storey, who knows.

Location: 78 Guan Chuan Street (Tiong Bahru Estate) #01-49 Singapore 160078.