NEXT IN VOGUE 2024 just successfully concluded its run from 16 to 17 October 2024 at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel and The Capitol Theatre, and I’m all hyped! This two-day extravaganza brought over 1,200 fashion lovers together for a dynamic programme of panels, fringe events, and tech innovations. If you’re still experiencing FOMO because you missed out (my condolences), don’t worry, I’ve got you! Here’s what went down.

This year, it was about more than clothes, it was about innovative fashion. The theme? ‘AI & I’ – the incorporation of artificial intelligence within creative industries. With celebrity attendees, breakthrough tech, and more, NEXT IN VOGUE was buzzing like mad! 

If you love high fashion, tech, or simply love being ahead of the trends (or even just participating in them – there’s no shame!), keep reading! Because this event was a sneak peek of what’s next for the industry. Spoiler alert – it’s looking fab!

Here’s the Break Down!

Across 14 panels with 42 industry leaders like the legendary Nick Knight and digital artist Krista Kim, there were insightful discussions about topics like the influence of AI on fashion and ethical concerns in tech-driven creativity. The conversations were very forward-thinking!

Beyond the panels, the fringe activities are another worthy highlight! Vogue Closet was a glitz and glam fantasy, showing off celebrity red-carpet looks from leading Asian designers like Chet Lo, Gaurav Gupta, and Cong Tri. I always love seeing such opulent looks; they make my jaw drop every time! 

Things went up a notch with the Vogue Innovation Showcase which introduced revolutionary technologies. Take singer Charli XCX’s immersive experience on the Apple Vision Pro, produced by SHOWStudio and Nomtek for example—if that’s not cutting-edge, I don’t know what is!

For those who were looking for hands-on beauty tips from the pros (me next!), the Vogue Glam Room was the place to be. Seven masterclasses featuring iconic brands like Kevin Murphy, SK-II, and Shu Uemura gave attendees a front-row seat to the latest beauty techniques, from mastering seasonal makeup trends to nailing the perfect hairstyling routine. I’ll admit, I’m a little jealous now!

Look at that! The Capitol Theatre was transformed into a literal fashion playground. What’s more, four regional designers showcased their visionary collections in a stunning show curated by Vogue Singapore’s fashion team. There was Grace Ling (Singapore), who wowed with her razor-sharp, sensual 3D-printed designs. Then there was a whimsical twist with Brian Khoo (Malaysia), with lavish metallic fabrics and vibrant colours in his A Nostalgic Reverie collection. 

Meanwhile, Phan Huy (Vietnam) presented romantic silhouettes ornated with handcrafted flowers and delicate beadwork – the epitome of femininity. Last but not least, Adeline Esther (Indonesia) gave new meaning to traditional aesthetics with her experimental silhouettes and sequins. And for the cherry on top, each designer was paired with regional cover models featured in Vogue Singapore’s October issue themed ‘Community’!

Vogue Singapore also took this opportunity to spotlight emerging talent with two prestigious awards. Claire Boon, a brilliant collage artist, was awarded the Vogue Singapore Talent Prize in partnership with CHARLES & KEITH by none other than Academy Award-nominated actress Stephanie Hsu. And the Vogue Singapore x BMW Group Asia Innovation Prize went to Barbara Yu Larsson, founder of PAKT – a newfangled wardrobe storage system. Congratulations to them!

As someone who loves statement fashion and loud dressing, the grand finale – the Vogue Singapore Fourth Anniversary Gala – was the moment! Hosted under the dazzling theme ‘Les Enfants Terribles: The Art of Rebellion,’ it celebrated unapologetic, expressive style culture in Singapore; something you don’t see very often! And the guest list was star-studded – 300 VIPs from fashion, music, beauty, and business industries, with appearances by venture capitalists, regional TV stars, and style influencers. There were even esteemed diplomatic representatives from different countries!

It’s safe to say, the guests did not disappoint; they bodied the rebellious theme with their daring looks. Things kicked off with a bang as guests were treated to a phenomenal welcome reception – with Don Julio and Royal Salute cocktails, and Gosset champagne flowing, paired with delicious bites from Forged and The Royal Caviar Club. What a way to set the classy tone! 

The best-dressed VIPs strutted their stuff on the exclusive black carpet, where Vogue Singapore’s very own contributing editor, Yvette King, was hosting interviews. Lucky for us, the interviews with the stylish crowd can be found on Vogue Singapore’s socials!

Oh – what’s my favourite look? Why, I thought you’d never ask! I’d have to say Shawn Soh took the cake for me, all dressed up in Yves Salomon, Rick Owens and Jean Paul Gaultier:

We have to get into this all-green ensemble. That lush, dark green fur Yves Salomon jacket? It was an effortlessly chic number — a statement without trying too hard. And as someone who’s obsessed with Rick Owens (both the brand and the designer’s style), the wide-leg trousers never miss! It’s so interesting, with the way it added shape to the silhouette so that it was not too top-heavy.

And can we have some commotion for the slicked “bug” hair? It’s playful, yet cohesive with everything else. I love it when fashion gets experimental with hair – always a fresh touch! It’s all about combining different elements, really. Shawn’s makeup was lowkey but impactful, with subtle smoky eyes, and the overall green theme made the pinkish colour on his lips pop a bit more. Hello, complementary colours! Overall, this look was a thing of art – edgy, but sleek. Chef’s kiss!

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In a nutshell, NEXT IN VOGUE 2024 has set the standard for what fashion events can be. I’m already counting down to March next year, when announcements for NEXT IN VOGUE 2025 will be revealed!

Until then, don’t mind me scrolling through Vogue Singapore’s Instagram and TikTok feed. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on Vogue Singapore’s official website!

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Visuals Courtesy of Vogue Singapore.