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Ever since we heard that the new Fendi store at Ngee Ann City would be opening in June, we've been eagerly awaiting to check out the spanking new space. After all, the refreshed store concept, with its plush interiors and beautiful decor, is said to be modelled after the stunning Palazzo Fendi in Rome, Italy.

Ahead of the opening party on Tuesday, the Italian brand kindly extended an invitation to the Singapore Tatler team and our 2017 Fashion Disruptor, Margie Van Elten, to check out the Pre-Fall 2017 collection, as well as the very exclusive VIP room—a first of its kind for Fendi.

(Related: Come Tour the Palazzo Fendi)

We also managed to sneak a peek at the limited-edition Mini Peekaboo in velvet, brought in specially to celebrate the opening. Made using a special tapestry weaving technique, there will only be five pieces of this special bag, as well as limited quantities of three other velvet Peekaboos designs at the Ngee Ann City store.

Margie poses in the VIP changing room at the new Fendi flagship store.

During our intimate session, we took the chance to sit down with the ever stylish, and gracious, Margie, to chat about some of her favourite looks from the season.

Hi Margie! We recently spied you looking absolutely lovely in a piece from Fendi's Spring/Summer 2017 collection at the Sentabale Royal Salute Polo Cup.
Margie Van Elten Thanks! It was scorching that day and I was thankful that the dress—though it was made from silk—kept me relatively cool in the heat. I even managed to say hello to Prince Harry as well!

Have you always been a huge fan of the brand?
MVE To be honest, I didn't start seriously buying until two seasons ago. I adored the fun and whimsical Spring/Summer 2017 collection. From the stripes to the floral prints to those sock boots... I might have bought the last pair from the store.

Margie holds one of five limited-edition mini Peekaboos that have been made using a unique tapestry method. The Ngee Ann City store is the only boutique in Singapore, and the first in South East Asia to have them.

So, which was your favourite look from the Pre-Fall 2017 collection?
MVE I'm definitely a fan of the beautiful asymmetrical black dress. It's voluminous, but actually very lightweight. Plus, it's amazing how it  looks both fun and glamorous at the same time. The limited-edition Peekaboo bags (pictured above) were also fantastic. 

Boots or heels?
MVE I do wear stilettos but not daily. I've always loved a good boot, and the silver ones I tried on are just fab. It's pretty comfortable given the height, as the arch is not too extreme.

 

What do you think of the new flagship store? 
MVE I love how spacious this store is. I'm sure the men would be very happy that they have an entire section to themselves now! 

What's one thing you would pick out for your husband, Joe (Blommaert)?  
MVE Joe can be a very fussy shopper. He's into classic pieces and tailored suits. I loved some of the men's sunglasses (on myself), but if it's a gift for him, I'll most likely pick out a satchel or briefcase. 

The next Fendi item on my wishlist... 
Surprisingly, I really enjoyed wearing the pantsuit! The fabric wasn't heavy at all; it was fitted but not in a restrictive manner. When it comes to fashion, sometimes I can be the most practical person on the entire planet.

(Related: Up Close With Margie Van Elten Blommaert)  

Creative Direction: Elizabeth Lee
Photos: Benny Loh / Ben Loh Pictures
Hair & Make-up: Andrea Claire / aclairebeauty.com using Too Faced, Bobbi Brown, Charlotte Tilbury, Pat McGrath, Marc Jacobs Beauty, Iles Formula and Bedhead by Tigi
Assistant: Aditi Rane