With decades of experience in the fashion industry, Wykidd Song saw the proliferation of fast fashion and its consequences – wasteful production, rushed deliveries with no attention to quality, and a lack of originality.
So when he moved back to Singapore from Hong Kong in 2016, he felt a renewed energy to create a platform where craft, design, and human stories converge. Hence, Akinn was born, and its debut collection launched in September 2020.
The look: modern classics with contemporary silhouettes and creative cuts, but minimal fuss. Some of the pieces are produced locally, with the quality fabrics sourced from Japan, Korea and China.
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However, Covid-19 threw a curveball. “We were all very excited and optimistic about 2020 with collaborations and launches lined up. The rest, as they say, is history,” said Song. But he remains optimistic as “there is just so much to look forward to, and the digital front line is ever changing, so it’s an exciting time for e-commerce brands like us.”
Song believes design is not just aesthetic – it is meant to have function and substance, enhancing positive feelings through sensory experiences.
As creative director, Song handles all aspects of design and production. His muse? A sophisticated woman.
“She is a homeowner; she runs a company or is quite established in her career. Her clothes enhance her persona – she is fashion aware, not a fashion victim. She’s a financially independent, socially informed, digitally savvy, discerning and confident woman,” he says.
“I want to put out designs that work, so I observe what is well received, then improve and tweak the design.”
Going forward, Song hopes to develop a community of creatives who share similar principles to co-create exquisite pieces across multiple disciplines, such as art, jewellery, and home accessories.
“We’re in contact with Singapore designers and artists in different fields. It’s really inspiring, seeing them at work, some of whom share the same vision as us. My dream for Akinn is to work with industry leaders and young talents to create unique products,” he muses.
Constant evolution is key for the label. “We also want to reflect the commitment and passion for good craftsmanship, which hopefully translates to responsible consumption,” adds Song.
“I have a picture in mind for a circular economy, where my customers can recycle their used items, but that will be in the future. For now, we just have to balance the cost between slowing down the hurt we impose on earth and making our business work.”
Akinn will release a capsule collection of five to eight designs every two months, inspired by personalities and their passion for craft, style and life.
Here are five pieces we love.