EIGHTIES GLAM
Emerging as one of South Korea’s most exciting fashion discoveries is Fleamadonna and its mastermind, Jei Kim. With a unique style that flows beyond a particular cut, colour or form, Jei’s ‘80s music influences have brought about a modern twist to old school fashion design, keeping the label’s produce fresh and appealing to the eye. The designer’s philosophies are apparent in her label’s Spring/Summer collection, one which showcases a unique selection of printed leggings, laced outfits and sequined offerings that hipsters can flashdance in.

How was the label conceived?
The brand started in 2007 when I was 22 years old. Just as I liked fashion, I wanted to be a fashion designer too. But during that time, the Korea’s fashion scene was filled with young and casual brands, and that wasn’t my cup of tea. I wanted something that was more glamourous, blinged up and cheap. I like divas like Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Beyonce. I respect their music and style so I created Fleamadonna!

Did you expect your designs to travel as far as Singapore when you first started?
No, I’m still a small company so I’m very grateful for people liking what I do and wanting to interview me. I really love this interview with JUICE!

And we love you too. Tell us about the sequins and lace we see in your latest collection.
This collection is inspired by divas from the ‘80s. I mean, I do like Lady GaGa, Beyonce and new-school Madonna, but the ‘80s were golden! Whenever I have the time, I would listen to old songs and watch old movies. Someone once said that my clothes are not easy to wear. I know that but look at my brand name, Fleamadonna; Forever Madonna! Be it special fabrics or anything else, I just want to make things that are special. I want to be different from other designers.

Fleamadonna is available exclusively at Actually…, 29 Seah Street, T: 6336 7298.

www.fleamadonna.com

Text: Dianna Tai
Interview courtesy of: Actually…
Photography: Ivanho Harlim & Shysilia Novita
Model: Nikita R [Ave]

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