Since moving to Singapore from Tokyo last December, Seia Lee has made a surprising observation: Singaporeans love to dress up. “I’m amazed as to how some ladies can wear their Chanel jackets to lunch when it’s really hot outside!” laughs the Japanese mezzo-soprano. 

Still, Seia’s custom-built floor-to-ceiling wardrobe back home is filled with dramatic gowns by such designers as Elie Saab and Marchesa that she wears when performing. A single concert might see her change outfits about five times. Since relocating here, she has discovered the treasure trove that is multi-label store Pois Boutique. “I can stay in there forever!”

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While her career has given her reason to buy beautiful gowns, it has also given her great memories. Her favourite? Definitely her performance at Suntory Hall in Tokyo last year, where she celebrated the 10th anniversary of her solo career and was outfitted in a beautiful fuchsia caped silk gown by Oscar de la Renta. “I never wear black on stage. But in contrast, if I’m attending a party, I’ll dress simply, in black or minimalist designs.”