Sad news for the local design and fashion scene: multi-label store Blackmarket (winner of our Readers Choice Awards for Best Indie Boutique for the past three years) has ceased operations.

In a statement issued by the boutique today, owner Jasmine Tuan says, "It is with heavy heart to announce that we are no longer affiliated with Orchard Central and Far East Organization. Without hesitation, the management locked our vicinity without notice. Rentals from the passed three years are restraining Blackmarket to continue in the vicinity."

It remains to be seen if the current stocks in the existing store will be moved to a new venue or returned to the various designers, as Tuan is rethinking the store's direction. "Although we can't continue in the vicinity, we are planning to rethink our strategy for these coming months and formulate an effective way of dealing with high-cost of rental in Singapore. We are open with any ideas or leads from anyone of you to continue the goals of the brand."