The Packing List: Singapore
Now that you have booked your next vacation to Singapore, let me help you get packed!I’m all for preparation and I realized that sometimes you need a little guidance on what to wear under certain environmental considerations. Singapore is humid. Read: It’s sticky, sweaty and hot. But do not let this dismay you - just be mindful when packing.This is not Singapore specific, but if you are out in the sun have protection.
Start with sunscreen, like this Quick Dry Body Spray SPF 40 by MD Solar Sciences. This non-aerosol spray is quick drying, non-greasy and water resistant for up to 80 min. Those sensitive to smells will be glad to hear its fragrance free and it’s also reef-safe (made without Oxybenzone and Octinoxate). The quick drying formula is helpful in humid areas, not to add to the stickiness.
Looking to get that tan glow without the use of the sun? Iconic London’s Prep-Set-Tan. Available in two shades - Original (for light-medium skin tones) and Glow (for medium-deep skin tones). This tanning spray adds a light shimmer to enhance your natural complexion. Use the face and Body Brush for ease of application.Another form of sun protection – shades! And you can never have too many.
From Australia’s G.O.D. Eyewear comes from the Thirty-Three, made from premium Italian Mazzucchelli acetate and Japanese anti-reflective CR39 lenses. Channeling old Hollywood actress vibes, the style is an update on the traditional cat eye. I like this colorway in Ayers and Brown.The green checkerboard Kubrick 2 Sunglasses, part of the XX Heritage Anniversary collection by Etnia Barcelona are a fun way to bring a punch of color into a neutral wardrobe. Grandson David Pellicer sparks something new in this third-generation optical company based in Barcelona. Bringing sustainability to the forefront, the acetate frames are both durable and have 100% recyclable mineral lenses. The oleophobic and hydrophobic treatment that reduces fingerprints and helps repel water. For a more subdued version – there is a cream and bronze checkerboard colorway called the Havana.
Where there is sun, walk in the shade with Artesano hats. Artesano was co-founded in 2014 by Ecuadorian born and Miami-based business partners and entrepreneurs, Claudia Estrada and Xavier Blum. Passionate for artisan/hand-craftsmanship, the duo shares their homeland’s work in the form of stylish Panama hats and bags. The best-selling Mandarin(4-inch brim) shown in Maroon and the Sengal (6-inch brim) in Teal are both crafted in Ecuador with 100% Toquilla straw. All hats have a size-adjustable inner band, giving you the perfect fit.
I am one for large, statement jewelry. Yet, in the heat and humidity – it’s not always a wise choice. Forgo the layered necklaces and the rings and opt for these Gavin enamel 6-piece earring set by Adornmonde. The 14K gold plated sterling silver, enamel, crystal ear stack gives you the variety to mix and match according to your outfit. This limited-edition set is also available in a ring and ear cuff set. I love wearing studs, but find the round shape a little too boring at times. The Vart Earring Set has a geometric shape which makes it a fun departure from the classic stud. These made to order, 4 stud Vart Earring set is available in 14K solid gold, white, rose gold with crystal.
What says warmer weather than espadrilles? Check out these Judy Espadrilles by Rouje.The added 5 cm (~ 2 inches) wedge heel enhances the timeless shoe. The 100% cotton scalloped opening is adjustable for comfort and ribbon to criss-cross and tie at the ankle makes it flatter on the foot. Made in Spain, the Judy is available in chic Marine and Rouge. The French fashion brand Rouje, was created by founder/model creative director Jeanne Damas in 2016. Citing a number of inspirations like her own mother, Paris rooftops and the smell of vacation, it’s no wonder that the brand emulates a certain level of whimsy.
As we all know, your feet will expand during the heat. And while you might not be walking from place to place – sightseeing does require you to get out of your air-conditioned vehicle and walk in said venue (think mall, gallery). You need something that has the comfort of a sneaker but the look of a chic sandal. The dr LIZA sneaker sandal has a 2-inch heel, has the signature rocker insole, EVA platform with added support under the toes. Shown here in Carmelo, it’s a classic neutral to complement any outfit.
Let’s talk about fabric for clothing and start with Cotton. An organic choice, breathable and can come in a variety of thicknesses which are great for humid weather. Inspired by her time in Jaipur, UK’s Molly Russell founded Pink City Prints. Pink City Prints incorporates century old artisan techniques of hand embroidery, block printing and hand looming in all of their wares. It can take up to three days for a hand embroidery dress to be complete. Through the hand looming process, it can take a whole day to produce enough fabric to make a single dress. For block printing, each design is carved into a wooden slab by hand, dipped into different colored dye and stamped on the fabric one layer of color at a time. Knowing the history and process behind a garment from Pink City Prints makes them even more coveted and timeless. Being mindful of the planet, deadstock material is either sold for charity or used for packaging. This Indigo Ikat Classic Rah Rah dress is my top pick. It’s complete with a smocked waistline and with the elasticized sleeves, so you can wear it on or off the shoulder.
After launching the Blazer brand loved by the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton herself in 2004 – the ready-wear collection from SMYTHE is going strong. The Trumpet Sleeve Midi Dress has you covered for all of life’s moments. This is that throw-on dress taking you from the beach BBQ to running those errands. In a whimsical floral print in midi length cotton gauze has a trumpet sleeve and side seam pockets.Linen. Another great choice for humid weather. It can be tricky when traveling, but if you have good roll technique when packing or have access to an iron, it’s a breeze.
Made in Bali, REVEL REY is a swim and resort wear company created by owner / designer Audrey “Rey” Swanson. Each piece in the collection can seamlessly move from day-to-night. My personal pick is Nina Top and Tessa Short both in Sorbet 100% Linen. Wear the relaxed Nina top open or button it up. The Tessa short comes with a custom belt. Wear both pieces together as a matching set or as separates.
BONDI BORN is Australian design at its best. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, the company is a certified B Corporation and Climate Neutral Certified. 1% of revenue is donated to the organization 1% for the Planet and with every order, one new tree is planted through their partner, One New Tree. The Komodo Mini Dress in the Arctic colorway is made from Portuguese linen and has cut outs at the waist. The flattering wide waist belt wraps around the body and ties in the front.Silk. Another cool material that can help you beat the heat. I love this Intimissimi Short Sleeve Silk and Modal Top in Blue Spray. Its loose fit has elbow-length sleeves and rounded boat neckline. This top can easily be worn with a flouncy mini skirt for a casual look or with slim fitting pants for a day at the office. Part of the #intermissicares project to bring traceability of their Italian product chain.
For a print that screams festival (music or film) ROY G brings you psychedelic silk leisurewear. This Geode Tie-Dye Mini Silk Slip Dress in Aura is also available in a midi length. Designed in Brooklyn and responsibly made in Los Angeles. This is the dress that can take you from day to night pairing it with everything from sneakers to heels.
Both linen and silk can run on the pricier side, so if you are looking for something versatile without a high price point try TOBI. Don’t despair with the satin, all indoor spaces in Singapore have A/C. The material also makes it less prone to wrinkles as well. My favorite part of the Listen to Me Magenta Satin Cowl Neck Adjustable Ruched Dress is the adjustable length. Make it a mini or a midi, you can even make it asymmetrical as well. The cowl neckline is flattering on all figures. This Always Yours Satin Cowl Neck in this rich emerald green colorway fits the bill for your next dressy soiree. Its side slit shows just enough leg for the midi silhouette.
