Wednesday, December 30, 2009
A.I. by Ashley Isham
 These days, so much has been talked about renowned fashion designers, till we forgot all about our homegrown talents. I do not see why so many people can invest in pieces from those designers but find it tough to support the local talents. Do you even know that we have more than a handful of Singaporean fashion designers? Haha. Some of them like Thomas Wee, Francis Cheong, Daniel Yam, Hayden Ng, Salem Alba, Benny Ong and (of course) Ashley Isham have proven to be on par with all those other designers by successfully marketing their designs overseas and such. They produce pieces which doesn't lack anything be it in terms of looks or quality so why aren't they given enough limelight? Such a pity, no? Le sigh...
 Personally, if I can ever afford a designer wear for myself and my family (to be worn to events or so), I wouldn't think twice about approaching a local designer to have them design the pieces. I trust that they can really come up with an outstanding piece which "screams" louder than anything else. Hehe. One of them who I believe can create a really gorgeous outfit is, Eshamuddin Ismail or better known as, Ashley Isham. Having personally seen and felt his collection, I think there's no reason for anyone to doubt his designing ability. He knows what he's doing and I'm glad he continued to make the fashion industry in Singapore, lively.
I also adore the fact that Ashley really thinks about his clients. He knew that not everyone can afford his collection from the main line or rather need something more simple for everyday use, thus, he recently introduced his side line which is simply called A.I. by Ashley Isham. A.I. is supposed to be pronounced as AI which means love in Mandarin and co-incidentally, the boutique is located in Mandarin Gallery. How cute is that? Hehe. A.I. sees Ashley designing jeans, t-shirts, mini/long dresses and also accessories (bags/brooches etc). The best part? They're all soooo affordable! If his main line is well known to have pieces starting from SGD1,200 onwards, A.I. on the other hand, offers pieces for as low as SGD79! Just imagine! Now, everyone can get a piece of Ashley Isham (not literally). HAHA!
 Oh yeah, recently, Ashley have also stepped into the jewellery world. He collaborated with Lee Hwa Jewellery to come up with the Ashley Isham Collection. The collection combines the best of both haute couture and fine craftsmanship, incorporating Ashley's signature draping and knots. I've also personally seen the collection and I must say, it's really incredible! Though the pieces are simple, they still "scream" in their own way. The best of them all must be the ones in rose gold. Just unique! :)
With so much have been said about Ashley Isham, of course I feel I must do my part in supporting him, as a local designer. Hehe. Well, sadly, Ashley have been focusing in designing for the fairer gender all these while, leaving me with nothing to acquire for myself. It's about time he thinks of his male clients, no? Haha. Anywho, if I can't directly support, there's always my mom. Hehehe! Yups, she bought a "Love Divine" ring from Ashley's jewellery collection and also a bejewelled t-shirt from A.I. by Ashley Isham. Both are so affordable, I still can't believe that they're from Ashley Isham. Haha! I can't wait to see more of his collections in the near future. :)
 So there U go people. What's there not be proud about our local talent? Start supporting local designers, today! :D I really hope many more local designers can make it the top, just like Ashley. May 2010 be a better year for all local designers, alike. All the best to you guys! :D
Regards,
Niz
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