GSC Perspectives: Localised Luxury in Asia

Published 06 / 12 / 2025

As luxury spending has become more competitive locally, we spoke with Ting Ting Zhang, Singapore Fashion Council CEO, about emerging opportunities in Singapore’s luxury landscape.

GSC Perspectives: Localised Luxury in Asia

GSC Perspectives: Localised Luxury in Asia

With Singapore Fashion Council CEO, Ting Ting Zhang

As luxury spending has become more competitive locally, we spoke with Ting Ting about emerging opportunities in Singapore’s luxury landscape.

1. You are passionate about local craftsmanship, where do you see the opportunity for luxury in this space?

There is rich potential for luxury brands and fashion houses to collaborate with local artisans – we work with many craftsmen who take ancient crafts such as Batik and Peranakan and interpret these in a contemporary manner. It’s becoming a key part of the strategy to differentiate their products in a crowded market, as well as to connect with increasingly discerning consumers who value authenticity and

storytelling. Take the curated selection of Singaporean designer Ling Wu handbags — the brand has partnered with Handep, a socially-driven enterprise from Kalimantan — they approach their craft by combining the indigenous ancient craft of Dayak weaving with contemporary design which showcases the power of local craftsmanship and cultural heritage in fashion. The collection, available at the Edition Hotel’s curated boutique, not only revives a dying art but also creates a unique, authentic narrative, appealing to consumers seeking products with cultural meaning and heritage. The collaboration is a perfect example of how fashion can celebrate tradition while embracing contemporary aesthetics, offering a distinct, story-driven alternative in today’s market.

2. What experiential strategies do you think are working locally?

Cultural integration is key; it creates more compelling storytelling and experiences that speak to the local consumers’ evolving luxury values. The integration of cultural elements and artisan craftsmanship into luxury collections is a growing trend that many luxury brands are embracing today. I think a great example of this is the recent Louis Vuitton Murakami pop-up, they chose a heritage Peranakan shophouse in a conservation area to create an engaging retail concept space. Coach also chose to open its Play Singapore Shophouse in a historic location on the Keong Saik Road. Alongside curated brand experience, for example you can create a custom Coach bag, they also partnered with local Brawn & Brains coffee for its instore cafe – it showcases the brand New York Roots but pays homage to its host city. Both show how brands can honour their heritage while respecting their host city. Equally, these spaces become content destinations for younger travellers.

3. How can brands build loyalty with the Gen Z and Millennial luxury consumers?

Authenticity and storytelling are incredibly important in capturing the attention of these groups, and bringing this to life is done best face to face in store where an emotional connection can be made to brand representative, a brand product or its story. We speak to many brands about luxury clientele training and work with brands such as Tod’s and Louis Vuitton on a Singapore Fashion Council developed training program for front line retail staff. They need to have exceptional knowledge, and to be able to story tell why a particular piece is so special, whilst offering a 5-star hospitality experience – it’s a real art but done well this will be the foundation of brand loyalty of this group of luxury consumers.

4. What is your perspective on the balance between online and offline retail experiences?

The physical retail experience remains irreplaceable. SFC’s retail space, DORS, showcases over 80 local brands that modernise traditional crafts and transform Southeast Asian art into wearable design. Through curated workshops and private events, we create a creativity hub that gives consumers access to emerging designers they cannot find or access elsewhere — offering both unique experiences and social currency. While luxury brands should use digital for storytelling and brand building, physical spaces deliver the tactile, immersive experiences that drive authentic connection.