Discover 12 independent designers making their debut at Boutique Fairs' Spring/Summer 2024 edition this weekend

When was the last time you bought something in support of a start-up studio or with an interesting story to tell? At Boutique Fairs Singapore, which is back from April 26 to 28 with its Spring/Summer 2024 edition, there are more than 300 independent brands and designers from around the world — showcasing a diverse array of products from fashion apparel and home decor to lifestyle goods and children's merchandise — to choose from.

In addition to the over-200 exclusive product launches, the shopping festival's largest edition ever will also debut 80 newcomers at its F1 Pit Building fairground. Another brand-new feature is a solo exhibition presented by acclaimed industrial designer Karyn Lim, who has previously shown her works at prestigious events such as Milan Design Week and Tokyo Design Week.

Beyond celebrating creativity and innovation, the organiser is also committed to championing social responsibility. You'd be glad to know that more than 80 per cent of participating brands have pledged themselves to sustainable and ethical practices. Indeed, more than just a shopping destination, Boutique Fairs Singapore envisions itself as a vibrant community hub for engaging with charities, social enterprises, and non-profit organisations (from whom you could purchase something meaningful, too).

With a single ticket priced at just $6 (children under 12 enter free), visitors are granted unlimited entry across all days, from 10am to 8pm on Friday and Saturday, and until 6pm on Sunday. Each ticket also includes a redemption perk, allowing attendees to claim complimentary items from healthy snacks to coffee, while supplies last. Parking is not available, except for drivers with valid mobility-impairment labels, but a free shuttle bus service will run at 15min intervals between Millenia Walk and the venue.

While the event is shaping up to be an absolute dream for the whole family with kids' activities, a charity auction, empowering talks and a slew of F&B options, we're most excited about the new labels joining the fair, and meeting the people behind them. Here are our shortlisted 12.

3EIGHTH: Launched in 2018 by Sheryl Yeo, this fashion label transforms menswear tailoring into bespoke women's apparel. Known for its made-to-order collections and pattern precision, the brand is set to debut its first casual line blending masculinity and femininity, named ARC, which is wholly made in Singapore.

Anaphe: Founded by Hong Kong-based former air traffic controller Katy Chambers, Anaphe reimagines silk with timeless, small-batch classics. This British designer’s work, worn by celebrities like Sarayu Blue, will introduce the Stems collection featuring pastel and watercolor designs.

Cement Produce Design: This Japanese design studio brings its vision of playful and modern home decor to our shores. Its quirky yet functional range of lifestyle goods is not just perfect for apartment living, but also exclusive to Singapore at this event.

Coq & Malai: Wararat Treethanawat's brand embodies a Franco-Thai family’s love for rustic elegance, offering homeware that blends French craftsmanship with Thai hospitality. Exclusive to the fair is The Weekenders Collection, which showcases artisanal outdoor essentials crafted in French and Thai villages.

Erika Pena: The eponymous brand is synonymous with dramatic, Latin-inspired couture, including swimwear and resort wear characterised by elaborate bows and ruffles. Known globally and worn by celebrities, Pena's designs cater to a wide range of sizes up to US20.

Gianara: Hailing from Indonesia, Gianara celebrates art and travel through beaded bags and accessories handcrafted by local artisans. The Forest of Dreams collection, launching exclusively at the fair, features intricate designs inspired by the country's rainforests on lambskin leather.

House of Pehr: Founded in 2021 in India by Shrutika Jatia, this jewellery label blends philanthropy with style. Its support of local artisans does not just ensure the continuation of precious craftsmanship know-how, but also imparts a "modern heirloom" quality to the brand's creations.

JRNY JRNL: A Singaporean brand with production based in South Korea, JRNY JRNL offers bags that epitomise contemporary, clean aesthetics. Whether you're a corporate traveller who prioritise functionality or someone who believes that less is more, there is suitable sac from this studio for you.

KIBO: This eco-friendly sneaker brand champions footwear made from repurposed materials like apple waste, leather trimmings, and recycled plastics. With each purchase, KIBO will donate part of its proceeds to Compassion First, an organisation aiding human trafficking victims. A special edition designed by a Singaporean artist will debut at the fair.

LAYERPLAN: Specialising in essential base layers, this brand believes in maximum wearability and the cultural significance of simple clothing. At the fair, it will introduce exclusive lounge sets that combine comfort with minimalism and practicality.

Studio Ingrid Burgos: Based in Bogota’s La Candelaria, this jewellery house boasts a mission to revitalise Colombian handcrafts through arresting designs that narrate the country's rich cultural history. Its workshop also acts as a hub for innovative applications of traditional techniques in new, creative forms.

The Tangerine Road: Established in 2017, this Italian brand crafts slow fashion inspired by the ancient Silk Road. Evoking the cultures encountered during travels through Asia by founders Sofia Zanchini and Paola Bianchi, its collection is also made with ethical sourcing and sustainability in mind.