Old meets new

Priscilla Shunmugam has brought with her something old into her new flagship store at Chip Bee Gardens. This gigantic vintage signboard—along with old photographs of her parents and ancestors—from her previous shop at Hong Leong Building, add a touch of old school charm and homely feel to her store. From what we see, it’s blending in really well with the surrounding modern decor!

Masters at work

A trip to the store is hardly complete without gazing into the atelier room because there’s just something fascinating about observing seamstresses who’re dressed in white lab coats, and concentrating on their craft. Behind the glass window sits Shunmugam’s four mandarin-speaking artisans: Jasmine Thay, Chew Kim Hua, Yeo Kiok, and Chen Shi Ying. Shunmugam, who doesn’t speak mandarin, relies on her gestures and expressions to get things done. But with a team that has a combined 129 years in garment making, you can be sure that your dresses will turn out perfectly under the hands of these dedicated and skillful women.

Fresh new look

Alongside the opening of the new premise, Shunmugam has also partnered Singaporean creative agency The Secret Little Agency (TSLA)—who’s also created advertising campaigns for Netflix and Nespresso—for a rebrand. This includes a new paper bag with a beautiful and intricate string tie, and a staff badge design formed by the surnames of the designer’s parents.

Mark of harvest

Shunmugam’s latest motif is a representation of her Indian heritage, and is inspired by rangoli—a traditional Indian art form believed to bring good luck. If you’ve been living in Singapore, you’ll find the symbol familiar. The drawing is most commonly seen on the living room floors or courtyards of Indian families during the Deepawali festival.

A tailored fit

Besides her ready-to-wear pieces, Ong Shunmugam now offers customisation and bespoke services. Named Ong Shunmugam Custom, you can select different fabrics based on Shunmugam’s many designs to create your version of the dress. For future brides, with the in-house bespoke services, you can finally get that one-of-a-kind wedding gown or eveningwear handmade by Shunmugam.

For more information, visit ongshunmugam.com.