Skye Tan Talks AUPEN, His Fashion Accessories Brand That's Approved By Kylie Jenner
This up-and-coming brand is catching the eye of several celebs
BY NATALIE-ELIZABETH TAN / MARCH 2, 2023
Credit: AUPEN
Have you heard of AUPEN, one of the buzziest fashion brands making waves internationally right now? If you haven’t, consider yourself acquainted now. Helmed by Singaporean Skye Tan, who is Head of Product & Design, with Lydia Maurer, Head of Concept, AUPEN’s bag designs boast a clean silhouette and distinct asymmetrical design.
Skye and Lydia’s names may not ring a bell, but trust us — they hold weight in the fashion world. Lydia Maurer is the ex-artistic director of fashion powerhouse Paco Rabanne, and has had stints working at Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent.
As for Skye, he has come a long way. An HDB boy at heart (his words, not ours!), Skye is now based in the glamorous Big Apple. The fashion photographer, an alum of the prestigious School of Visual Arts of New York, cut his teeth working with industry heavyweights Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few.
Despite having just entered the scene, the brand has already caught the attention of A-listers — Kylie Jenner and Gabrielle Union have both been spotted clutching an AUPEN bag.
Ahead, we chat with the fashion insider who spills all about AUPEN and his journey in the fashion world
Tell us all about Aupen! We’d love to learn how it came about and the meaning behind the name and brand.
The name AUPEN is a portmanteau of the words “AU-thentic” and “o-PEN”. At AUPEN, we strive to bring sustainability and transparency to the forefront of fashion — both in terms of our environmental usage as well as promoting mental health.
I conceived AUPEN’s concept on a late night on the streets of Brooklyn after I had one too many drinks… so nothing too interesting there. Visions of bag designs appeared before my eyes, and the debut collection was birthed.
By utilising vegan leather for every product, we want to be a part of the revolution where the industry is moving away from animal sources such as fur and leather. Though many may still prefer these materials right now, we’re determined to show them that eco-friendly options can be cool too.
Your mission is to empower people to live with a greater sense of well-being. How does Aupen plan to achieve this?
Credit: AUPEN
I’m excited to be on a mission combining my experience in two totally different realms, fashion and childhood psychology. Working with special needs children at PS169 Sunset Park School in Brooklyn, New York, has been a heart-opening experience for me. I’ve seen first-hand how sensory and visual cues can powerfully affect your mood and feelings.
That’s why I want to empower people everywhere through cheer-filled accessories, where you are feeling blue after a breakup or just want some fun accessories while looking for your next bae, let’s take this journey together!
Your various collections all have a distinctly asymmetrical design. Why is this so?
Aupen’s debut collection is feel-good fashion that embraces imperfection! The Japanese concept of fukinsei serves as its inspiration — the idea being that looking at asymmetrical forms can make us more tolerant of hardship and open up our moods with a simple reminder that we don’t need to be perfect.
So when life throws you curveballs, accessorize accordingly! With AUPEN’s designs in your corner, no obstacle has to seem insurmountable. It is totally normal to have ups and downs!
Aupen’s products are all vegan and ethically made. Why did the brand make this decision — as opposed to going the traditional route and using calf leather — and how does the brand ensure sustainability?
Credit: AUPEN
Animal leather has a huge environmental cost, and that’s why we’re passionate about using only alternative materials as part of our commitment to sustainability. We know the impact of regular leather is immense when it comes to land use, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. This isn’t just because of its production process, but also due to massive energy consumption along with chemical usage to turn animal skin into tanned leather.
But sustainability doesn’t stop at physical products — ethical labour practices are an important part too. That’s why we work closely in partnership with Heng Long, an LVMH subsidiary, to create exciting new designs while still staying true to our standards without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
You’re originally from Singapore, and you’ve come so far in the cut-throat fashion world. Singaporeans love to see one of our own making it on the international stage, so share with us your journey in fashion.
Although I have worked in fashion for a long time, this is one of the first times I have gathered the courage to take the plunge and do something independently. Most of my earlier fashion career has been working for other brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Stephane Rolland.
My journey wasn’t easy, coming from a humble family in Singapore without connections or wealth to jumpstart my own projects, all the way to New York today. I am proud as an HDB boy to have come so far, and I hope to inspire others that may feel uncertain or scared to channel that into creativity and drive. If I can do it, then you can do it too!
Lastly, any exciting new plans or projects in the pipeline?
We’re still growing and gaining momentum with the Fearless bag that Kylie Jenner wore, still fulfilling orders from the waitlist that was generated. We’ve also had some pretty exciting inquiries from department stores and brands about teaming up. Keep your eyes peeled for what we have in store next — AUPEN is going to make a big move soon!
Shop AUPEN here.
This article was sincerely referred from Her World. View the original article here.
Skye Tan Talks AUPEN, His Fashion Accessories Brand That's Approved By Kylie Jenner
This up-and-coming brand is catching the eye of several celebs
BY NATALIE-ELIZABETH TAN / MARCH 2, 2023
Credit: AUPEN
Have you heard of AUPEN, one of the buzziest fashion brands making waves internationally right now? If you haven’t, consider yourself acquainted now. Helmed by Singaporean Skye Tan, who is Head of Product & Design, with Lydia Maurer, Head of Concept, AUPEN’s bag designs boast a clean silhouette and distinct asymmetrical design.
Skye and Lydia’s names may not ring a bell, but trust us — they hold weight in the fashion world. Lydia Maurer is the ex-artistic director of fashion powerhouse Paco Rabanne, and has had stints working at Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent.
As for Skye, he has come a long way. An HDB boy at heart (his words, not ours!), Skye is now based in the glamorous Big Apple. The fashion photographer, an alum of the prestigious School of Visual Arts of New York, cut his teeth working with industry heavyweights Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few.
Despite having just entered the scene, the brand has already caught the attention of A-listers — Kylie Jenner and Gabrielle Union have both been spotted clutching an AUPEN bag.
Ahead, we chat with the fashion insider who spills all about AUPEN and his journey in the fashion world
Tell us all about Aupen! We’d love to learn how it came about and the meaning behind the name and brand.
The name AUPEN is a portmanteau of the words “AU-thentic” and “o-PEN”. At AUPEN, we strive to bring sustainability and transparency to the forefront of fashion — both in terms of our environmental usage as well as promoting mental health.
I conceived AUPEN’s concept on a late night on the streets of Brooklyn after I had one too many drinks… so nothing too interesting there. Visions of bag designs appeared before my eyes, and the debut collection was birthed.
By utilising vegan leather for every product, we want to be a part of the revolution where the industry is moving away from animal sources such as fur and leather. Though many may still prefer these materials right now, we’re determined to show them that eco-friendly options can be cool too.
Your mission is to empower people to live with a greater sense of well-being. How does Aupen plan to achieve this?
Credit: AUPEN
I’m excited to be on a mission combining my experience in two totally different realms, fashion and childhood psychology. Working with special needs children at PS169 Sunset Park School in Brooklyn, New York, has been a heart-opening experience for me. I’ve seen first-hand how sensory and visual cues can powerfully affect your mood and feelings.
That’s why I want to empower people everywhere through cheer-filled accessories, where you are feeling blue after a breakup or just want some fun accessories while looking for your next bae, let’s take this journey together!
Your various collections all have a distinctly asymmetrical design. Why is this so?
Aupen’s debut collection is feel-good fashion that embraces imperfection! The Japanese concept of fukinsei serves as its inspiration — the idea being that looking at asymmetrical forms can make us more tolerant of hardship and open up our moods with a simple reminder that we don’t need to be perfect.
So when life throws you curveballs, accessorize accordingly! With AUPEN’s designs in your corner, no obstacle has to seem insurmountable. It is totally normal to have ups and downs!
Aupen’s products are all
vegan and ethically made.
Why did the brand make this decision — as opposed to
going the traditional route
and using calf leather — and how does the brand ensure sustainability?
Credit: AUPEN
Animal leather has a huge environmental cost, and that’s why we’re passionate about using only alternative materials as part of our commitment to sustainability. We know the impact of regular leather is immense when it comes to land use, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. This isn’t just because of its production process, but also due to massive energy consumption along with chemical usage to turn animal skin into tanned leather.
But sustainability doesn’t stop at physical products — ethical labour practices are an important part too. That’s why we work closely in partnership with Heng Long, an LVMH subsidiary, to create exciting new designs while still staying true to our standards without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
You’re originally from
Singapore, and you’ve come
so far in the cut-throat
fashion world. Singaporeans love to see one of our own making it on the international stage, so share with us your journey in fashion.
Although I have worked in fashion for a long time, this is one of the first times I have gathered the courage to take the plunge and do something independently. Most of my earlier fashion career has been working for other brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Stephane Rolland.
My journey wasn’t easy, coming from a humble family in Singapore without connections or wealth to jumpstart my own projects, all the way to New York today. I am proud as an HDB boy to have come so far, and I hope to inspire others that may feel uncertain or scared to channel that into creativity and drive. If I can do it, then you can do it too!
Lastly, any exciting new
plans or projects in the
pipeline?
We’re still growing and gaining momentum with the Fearless bag that Kylie Jenner wore, still fulfilling orders from the waitlist that was generated. We’ve also had some pretty exciting inquiries from department stores and brands about teaming up. Keep your eyes peeled for what we have in store next — AUPEN is going to make a big move soon!
Shop AUPEN here.
Skye Tan Talks AUPEN, His Fashion Accessories Brand That's Approved By Kylie Jenner
This up-and-coming brand is catching the eye of several celebs
BY NATALIE-ELIZABETH TAN / MARCH 2, 2023
Credit: AUPEN
Have you heard of AUPEN, one of the buzziest fashion brands making waves internationally right now? If you haven’t, consider yourself acquainted now. Helmed by Singaporean Skye Tan, who is Head of Product & Design, with Lydia Maurer, Head of Concept, AUPEN’s bag designs boast a clean silhouette and distinct asymmetrical design.
Skye and Lydia’s names may not ring a bell, but trust us — they hold weight in the fashion world. Lydia Maurer is the ex-artistic director of fashion powerhouse Paco Rabanne, and has had stints working at Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent.
As for Skye, he has come a long way. An HDB boy at heart (his words, not ours!), Skye is now based in the glamorous Big Apple. The fashion photographer, an alum of the prestigious School of Visual Arts of New York, cut his teeth working with industry heavyweights Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few.
Despite having just entered the scene, the brand has already caught the attention of A-listers — Kylie Jenner and Gabrielle Union have both been spotted clutching an AUPEN bag.
Ahead, we chat with the fashion insider who spills all about AUPEN and his journey in the fashion world
Tell us all about Aupen! We’d love to learn how it came about and the meaning behind the name and brand.
The name AUPEN is a portmanteau of the words “AU-thentic” and “o-PEN”. At AUPEN, we strive to bring sustainability and transparency to the forefront of fashion — both in terms of our environmental usage as well as promoting mental health.
I conceived AUPEN’s concept on a late night on the streets of Brooklyn after I had one too many drinks… so nothing too interesting there. Visions of bag designs appeared before my eyes, and the debut collection was birthed.
By utilising vegan leather for every product, we want to be a part of the revolution where the industry is moving away from animal sources such as fur and leather. Though many may still prefer these materials right now, we’re determined to show them that eco-friendly options can be cool too.
Your mission is to empower people to live with a greater sense of well-being. How does Aupen plan to achieve this?
Credit: AUPEN
I’m excited to be on a mission combining my experience in two totally different realms, fashion and childhood psychology. Working with special needs children at PS169 Sunset Park School in Brooklyn, New York, has been a heart-opening experience for me. I’ve seen first-hand how sensory and visual cues can powerfully affect your mood and feelings.
That’s why I want to empower people everywhere through cheer-filled accessories, where you are feeling blue after a breakup or just want some fun accessories while looking for your next bae, let’s take this journey together!
Your various collections all have a distinctly asymmetrical design. Why is this so?
Aupen’s debut collection is feel-good fashion that embraces imperfection! The Japanese concept of fukinsei serves as its inspiration — the idea being that looking at asymmetrical forms can make us more tolerant of hardship and open up our moods with a simple reminder that we don’t need to be perfect.
So when life throws you curveballs, accessorize accordingly! With AUPEN’s designs in your corner, no obstacle has to seem insurmountable. It is totally normal to have ups and downs!
Aupen’s products are all vegan and ethically made. Why did the brand make this decision — as opposed to going the traditional route and using calf leather — and how does the brand ensure sustainability?
Credit: AUPEN
Animal leather has a huge environmental cost, and that’s why we’re passionate about using only alternative materials as part of our commitment to sustainability. We know the impact of regular leather is immense when it comes to land use, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. This isn’t just because of its production process, but also due to massive energy consumption along with chemical usage to turn animal skin into tanned leather.
But sustainability doesn’t stop at physical products — ethical labour practices are an important part too. That’s why we work closely in partnership with Heng Long, an LVMH subsidiary, to create exciting new designs while still staying true to our standards without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
You’re originally from Singapore, and you’ve come so far in the cut-throat fashion world. Singaporeans love to see one of our own making it on the international stage, so share with us your journey in fashion.
Although I have worked in fashion for a long time, this is one of the first times I have gathered the courage to take the plunge and do something independently. Most of my earlier fashion career has been working for other brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Stephane Rolland.
My journey wasn’t easy, coming from a humble family in Singapore without connections or wealth to jumpstart my own projects, all the way to New York today. I am proud as an HDB boy to have come so far, and I hope to inspire others that may feel uncertain or scared to channel that into creativity and drive. If I can do it, then you can do it too!
Lastly, any exciting new plans or projects in the pipeline?
We’re still growing and gaining momentum with the Fearless bag that Kylie Jenner wore, still fulfilling orders from the waitlist that was generated. We’ve also had some pretty exciting inquiries from department stores and brands about teaming up. Keep your eyes peeled for what we have in store next — AUPEN is going to make a big move soon!
Shop AUPEN here.
Skye Tan Talks AUPEN, His Fashion Accessories Brand That's Approved By Kylie Jenner
This up-and-coming brand is catching the eye of several celebs
BY NATALIE-ELIZABETH TAN / MARCH 2, 2023
Credit: AUPEN
Have you heard of AUPEN, one of the buzziest fashion brands making waves internationally right now? If you haven’t, consider yourself acquainted now. Helmed by Singaporean Skye Tan, who is Head of Product & Design, with Lydia Maurer, Head of Concept, AUPEN’s bag designs boast a clean silhouette and distinct asymmetrical design.
Skye and Lydia’s names may not ring a bell, but trust us — they hold weight in the fashion world. Lydia Maurer is the ex-artistic director of fashion powerhouse Paco Rabanne, and has had stints working at Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent.
As for Skye, he has come a long way. An HDB boy at heart (his words, not ours!), Skye is now based in the glamorous Big Apple. The fashion photographer, an alum of the prestigious School of Visual Arts of New York, cut his teeth working with industry heavyweights Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few.
Despite having just entered the scene, the brand has already caught the attention of A-listers — Kylie Jenner and Gabrielle Union have both been spotted clutching an AUPEN bag.
Ahead, we chat with the fashion insider who spills all about AUPEN and his journey in the fashion world
Tell us all about Aupen! We’d love to learn how it came about and the meaning behind the name and brand.
The name AUPEN is a portmanteau of the words “AU-thentic” and “o-PEN”. At AUPEN, we strive to bring sustainability and transparency to the forefront of fashion — both in terms of our environmental usage as well as promoting mental health.
I conceived AUPEN’s concept on a late night on the streets of Brooklyn after I had one too many drinks… so nothing too interesting there. Visions of bag designs appeared before my eyes, and the debut collection was birthed.
By utilising vegan leather for every product, we want to be a part of the revolution where the industry is moving away from animal sources such as fur and leather. Though many may still prefer these materials right now, we’re determined to show them that eco-friendly options can be cool too.
Your mission is to empower people to live with a greater sense of well-being. How does Aupen plan to achieve this?
Credit: AUPEN
I’m excited to be on a mission combining my experience in two totally different realms, fashion and childhood psychology. Working with special needs children at PS169 Sunset Park School in Brooklyn, New York, has been a heart-opening experience for me. I’ve seen first-hand how sensory and visual cues can powerfully affect your mood and feelings.
That’s why I want to empower people everywhere through cheer-filled accessories, where you are feeling blue after a breakup or just want some fun accessories while looking for your next bae, let’s take this journey together!
Your various collections all have a distinctly asymmetrical design. Why is this so?
Aupen’s debut collection is feel-good fashion that embraces imperfection! The Japanese concept of fukinsei serves as its inspiration — the idea being that looking at asymmetrical forms can make us more tolerant of hardship and open up our moods with a simple reminder that we don’t need to be perfect.
So when life throws you curveballs, accessorize accordingly! With AUPEN’s designs in your corner, no obstacle has to seem insurmountable. It is totally normal to have ups and downs!
Aupen’s products are all vegan and ethically made. Why did the brand make this decision — as opposed to going the traditional route and using calf leather — and how does the brand ensure sustainability?
Credit: AUPEN
Animal leather has a huge environmental cost, and that’s why we’re passionate about using only alternative materials as part of our commitment to sustainability. We know the impact of regular leather is immense when it comes to land use, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. This isn’t just because of its production process, but also due to massive energy consumption along with chemical usage to turn animal skin into tanned leather.
But sustainability doesn’t stop at physical products — ethical labour practices are an important part too. That’s why we work closely in partnership with Heng Long, an LVMH subsidiary, to create exciting new designs while still staying true to our standards without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
You’re originally from Singapore, and you’ve come so far in the cut-throat fashion world. Singaporeans love to see one of our own making it on the international stage, so share with us your journey in fashion.
Although I have worked in fashion for a long time, this is one of the first times I have gathered the courage to take the plunge and do something independently. Most of my earlier fashion career has been working for other brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Stephane Rolland.
My journey wasn’t easy, coming from a humble family in Singapore without connections or wealth to jumpstart my own projects, all the way to New York today. I am proud as an HDB boy to have come so far, and I hope to inspire others that may feel uncertain or scared to channel that into creativity and drive. If I can do it, then you can do it too!
Lastly, any exciting new plans or projects in the pipeline?
We’re still growing and gaining momentum with the Fearless bag that Kylie Jenner wore, still fulfilling orders from the waitlist that was generated. We’ve also had some pretty exciting inquiries from department stores and brands about teaming up. Keep your eyes peeled for what we have in store next — AUPEN is going to make a big move soon!
Shop AUPEN here.
/ STYLE FILES
Skye Tan Talks AUPEN, His Fashion Accessories Brand That's Approved By Kylie Jenner
This up-and-coming brand is catching the eye of several celebs
BY NATALIE-ELIZABETH TAN / MARCH 2, 2023
Credit: AUPEN
Have you heard of AUPEN, one of the buzziest fashion brands making waves internationally right now? If you haven’t, consider yourself acquainted now. Helmed by Singaporean Skye Tan, who is Head of Product & Design, with Lydia Maurer, Head of Concept, AUPEN’s bag designs boast a clean silhouette and distinct asymmetrical design.
Skye and Lydia’s names may not ring a bell, but trust us — they hold weight in the fashion world. Lydia Maurer is the ex-artistic director of fashion powerhouse Paco Rabanne, and has had stints working at Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent.
As for Skye, he has come a long way. An HDB boy at heart (his words, not ours!), Skye is now based in the glamorous Big Apple. The fashion photographer, an alum of the prestigious School of Visual Arts of New York, cut his teeth working with industry heavyweights Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and Paul Smith, to name a few.
Despite having just entered the scene, the brand has already caught the attention of A-listers — Kylie Jenner and Gabrielle Union have both been spotted clutching an AUPEN bag.
Ahead, we chat with the fashion insider who spills all about AUPEN and his journey in the fashion world
Tell us all about Aupen! We’d love to learn how it came about and the meaning behind the name and brand.
The name AUPEN is a portmanteau of the words “AU-thentic” and “o-PEN”. At AUPEN, we strive to bring sustainability and transparency to the forefront of fashion — both in terms of our environmental usage as well as promoting mental health.
I conceived AUPEN’s concept on a late night on the streets of Brooklyn after I had one too many drinks… so nothing too interesting there. Visions of bag designs appeared before my eyes, and the debut collection was birthed.
By utilising vegan leather for every product, we want to be a part of the revolution where the industry is moving away from animal sources such as fur and leather. Though many may still prefer these materials right now, we’re determined to show them that eco-friendly options can be cool too.
Your mission is to empower people to live with a greater sense of well-being. How does Aupen plan to achieve this?
Credit: AUPEN
I’m excited to be on a mission combining my experience in two totally different realms, fashion and childhood psychology. Working with special needs children at PS169 Sunset Park School in Brooklyn, New York, has been a heart-opening experience for me. I’ve seen first-hand how sensory and visual cues can powerfully affect your mood and feelings.
That’s why I want to empower people everywhere through cheer-filled accessories, where you are feeling blue after a breakup or just want some fun accessories while looking for your next bae, let’s take this journey together!
Your various collections all have a distinctly asymmetrical design. Why is this so?
Aupen’s debut collection is feel-good fashion that embraces imperfection! The Japanese concept of fukinsei serves as its inspiration — the idea being that looking at asymmetrical forms can make us more tolerant of hardship and open up our moods with a simple reminder that we don’t need to be perfect.
So when life throws you curveballs, accessorize accordingly! With AUPEN’s designs in your corner, no obstacle has to seem insurmountable. It is totally normal to have ups and downs!
Aupen’s products are all vegan and ethically made. Why did the brand make this decision — as opposed to going the traditional route and using calf leather — and how does the brand ensure sustainability?
Credit: AUPEN
Animal leather has a huge environmental cost, and that’s why we’re passionate about using only alternative materials as part of our commitment to sustainability. We know the impact of regular leather is immense when it comes to land use, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss. This isn’t just because of its production process, but also due to massive energy consumption along with chemical usage to turn animal skin into tanned leather.
But sustainability doesn’t stop at physical products — ethical labour practices are an important part too. That’s why we work closely in partnership with Heng Long, an LVMH subsidiary, to create exciting new designs while still staying true to our standards without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
You’re originally from Singapore, and you’ve come so far in the cut-throat fashion world. Singaporeans love to see one of our own making it on the international stage, so share with us your journey in fashion.
Although I have worked in fashion for a long time, this is one of the first times I have gathered the courage to take the plunge and do something independently. Most of my earlier fashion career has been working for other brands ranging from Louis Vuitton to Stephane Rolland.
My journey wasn’t easy, coming from a humble family in Singapore without connections or wealth to jumpstart my own projects, all the way to New York today. I am proud as an HDB boy to have come so far, and I hope to inspire others that may feel uncertain or scared to channel that into creativity and drive. If I can do it, then you can do it too!
Lastly, any exciting new plans or projects in the pipeline?
We’re still growing and gaining momentum with the Fearless bag that Kylie Jenner wore, still fulfilling orders from the waitlist that was generated. We’ve also had some pretty exciting inquiries from department stores and brands about teaming up. Keep your eyes peeled for what we have in store next — AUPEN is going to make a big move soon!
Shop AUPEN here.
This article was sincerely referred from Her World. View the original article here.
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