Singapore dressing has one fixed problem: the heat and humidity outside, and the strong air-conditioning inside. The bodysuit is a good example. It was one of the pieces that kept turning up in trend roundups in 2017, and it has since settled into the basics category, because it keeps a clean line under skirts and trousers without riding up or needing a tuck.
That is the test for any staple here. It has to cope with a hot commute, a cold office and a sudden downpour. These are the pieces that pass.
The bodysuit, a basic that stayed
A fitted bodysuit stays smooth from morning to night, which is why it keeps appearing in lists of what women in Singapore actually wear. Choose a breathable, thin cotton or similar fabric rather than anything thick and clingy, since synthetic fabrics worn close to the skin are the quickest way to feel the humidity. Wear it under a high-waisted midi skirt or loose trousers, and layer a shirt over it for sun protection.
Fabrics that do the work
Linen is the default choice for Singapore’s heat. Its shirts, trousers and dresses allow air to move and dry quickly, and a linen dress or cotton T-shirt copes with an unexpected soaking much better than denim. Thin washed cotton and lightweight silk also suit the climate. Nylon is the fabric to avoid.
Linen shirts and trousers in a blend are often the easiest office option. Tuck the shirt in for a neater finish.
Core pieces worth owning
- A flowy midi skirt: it lets air circulate and is work-appropriate. Pair it with a tucked-in tank top and a light cardigan.
- Cotton baby tees or ribbed tank tops: light, breathable and easy to pair with almost anything.
- Loose trousers: relaxed styles such as carpenter or parachute pants keep air moving.
- A slip dress or satin midi skirt: it moves in the breeze and feels dressed-up without being heavy.
- A button-down shirt: worn open over a dress or tank, it works like a cardigan and protects the shoulders from the sun.
- Matching co-ords: a cropped top and skort set looks styled with one decision.
The air-con layer
Shopping malls, restaurants, offices and cinemas are often kept very cold. A fine cardigan, a light scarf or an unlined linen blazer fits in a bag and handles it. Stick to neutral tones and the layer will go with everything, so you can repeat pieces without it showing.
Shoes and bags
A clean pair of white sneakers goes with nearly every outfit, and low-block sandals or loafers look professional yet stay wearable in sun or rain. Ballet flats and retro dad sneakers are both back in style. For bags, a mini crossbody keeps your hands free, while a roomy tote is practical for carrying a spare layer and an umbrella.
Singapore is known for sudden showers, so a compact umbrella suits most people better than a raincoat. A raincoat in this heat is, as one Singapore resident put it, like wearing a portable sauna. Quick-dry fabrics are a sensible choice for rainy-season commutes.
Building it without overspending
Start with neutral colours so the pieces mix and match, then buy the best fabric you can afford for items worn closest to the skin. Natural, breathable materials such as cotton and linen keep you comfortable in both the heat outside and the chill inside. Light colours such as white also reflect sunlight, which helps on the walk between stations.
Singapore shoppers can find linen-blend staples at labels including Muji and Uniqlo, though stock and ranges change season to season, so it is worth checking in store or online before heading out.