So I’m not one who believes in hype. You know—hype. Fashion’s attempt to convince you that a certain product is cooler than it actually is. But I have to say, after being in the market here for a year or so, the +J collection by Uniqlo has grown from strength to strength and is, well, cooler than ever. The Spring/Summer 2011 collection is definitely a few sartorial steps up from its last Autumn/Winter collection, which was boring and, ahem, impractical, to say the least. This time round, chief designer Jil Sander has opted for soft, fluid pieces with light wool jackets thrown in for good measure. Girls can have fun with the one-piece dresses ($169.90), which accentuate the bust line but are free-flowing at the bottom all the same (get your mind out of the gutter, boys); the guys have it even better: Weightless jackets ($69.90) made from twill, light wool and techno-taffeta with gorgeous pocket details, as well as pinstripe pants with fitted jackets ($299.90 upwards) that will look good anywhere. Available now at #03-27/34 313@somerset, 313 Orchard Rd., 6834-4073.
For those into outerwear (better stock up considering the unpredictable weather these days), the waterproof Stratham cargo bomber jacket ($339) by Timberland is also a must. Equally lightweight and made from 65 percent organic cotton and 35 percent regular cotton, the jacket packs a punch with its deceptively simple design—waterproof hood and a multi-functional pocket design along with a structured silhouette that will never go out of style—just the way I like it. Available in March at #01-01/03 The Centrepoint, 176 Orchard Rd., 6735-9050.
Other upcoming releases: The much-anticipated Adam Kimmel Spring Summer 2011 collection will be released on March 18 at the second wing of new boutique Club 21b, where the old Blackjack used to be. The latest drops by Adidas Originals include collaborations with popular figures such as designers Kazuki and Jeremy Scott and soccer player David Beckham, so expect collectible sweat pants, track tops and wedge boots ($99 upwards). New brands at multi-label boutique Front Row, including shoe specialists The Only Son and Heavy Machine, the former a Bangkok-based label that combines elements of 90s minimalism with utilitarian sportswear, and the latter a Taiwanese label known for its chunky designs and bold colors are also keeping me on my toes. Both will drop by mid March.