F ZINE People Cam: 2nd Street Opening Preview
A special edition of our monthly style compendium at the preview party of 2nd Street Singapore
By now, it’s crystal clear: thrifting in Singapore isn’t just a fleeting trend – it’s a full-blown subculture. And it’s about to level up in a big way. Meet 2nd Street, Japan’s largest and most trusted thrift retailer, which just landed its first-ever Singapore store at #B1-23/4 313@somerset on April 29. With over 23,000 meticulously curated pieces flown in from Japan – including a drool-worthy stash of second-hand luxury bags (yes, DTF: Designed To Flex) – this isn’t your average thrift drop.
Before it opened to the public, we got an exclusive sneak peek inside – and rubbed shoulders with some of the city’s most stylish thrift pros and content creators (read: the ones who can turn pre-loved pieces into peak Instagram chic). Scroll on for the head-turning outfits we spotted – this is your style inspo starter pack.
Name: Isabelle Quek
Age: 26
Occupation: Content creator
Tell us about the fit: “My top and bottoms are from The Tinsel Rack, my bandana is from Taobao, my shoes are from Charles & Keith, and my accessories are a mix from various places – some local, some overseas. My Balenciaga Neo Cagole tote was a gift. I love mixing feminine pieces, like this dainty white top, with more masculine or neutral items like cargo pants. And in case the top looks too formal, I added a bandana and some silver accessories to keep things fun and casual!”
Her secret to a great outfit: “Accessories. They may be small, but they have the power to completely steer the vibe and style of a fit.”
A fashion hot take: “Wearing what makes you feel good will always outshine any dress code you don’t believe in.”
A fashion tip she learned the hard way: “Stop spending on cheap workmanship and materials"
Her best thrift find: “A classic denim dungaree."
Name: Wong Kit Yee
Age: 23
Occupation: Communications and new media student
Tell us about the fit: “I wanted something comfy and easy to move in for thrifting, so I styled it around that. My top’s from Re.drmg, shorts from Cotton On, and cowboy boots from Woofie.Co. The bracelets are souvenirs from Italy and Vietnam, plus one from Spiced Gems. My pendant necklace is from Uwu Makes, and the other was a gift. I love adding pieces from my travels, and accessories are an easy way to do that. Inspired by Coachella, I paired micro shorts with a floral baby doll top and brown cowboy boots – perfect for spring and adding a boho vibe. I layered two necklaces to keep the look boho chic.”
Her secret to a great outfit: “Incorporate three colours or textures – it instantly elevates any look and adds dimension. For example, in my outfit, I have yellow, white, and brown. The top is chiffon, the shorts are cotton, and the boots are leather. This trick keeps the outfit from looking flat and is an easy way to make it more interesting.”
Her style icon: "I've realised that I'm very inspired by the media I watched as a child. Growing up, I watched a lot of TV shows from the early 2000s, and am now inspired by, specifically, the characters Phoebe, Monica and Rachel from Friends, the Totally Spies girls, and Winx Club, especially Flora."
A fashion hot take: “Personal style comes from having hobbies and actually living your life. It’s tough to develop a sense of style by just copying trends or others. Your style – and wardrobe – take time to curate, reflecting your own life and interests. Getting to know yourself is the best way to create a style that feels truly authentic.”
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: "This sounds cliche but confidence really does make such a huge difference in your outfit. Being comfortable and proudly owning your outfit is the best accessory you can have and will change the way you and others see your outfit."
Her best thrift find: "My best thrift find was a pair of brown leather boots from a 2nd Street store in Japan. They were the perfect fit, real leather boots and were less than $15."
Name: Natalie Naploes
Age: 23
Occupation: Content creator
Tell us about the fit: “I wanted something comfy but still presentable, with casual pieces I naturally gravitate towards. I paired a simple grey mini tee from my mom’s wardrobe with wide-legged cargo pants from the men’s section at GU in Tokyo for an edgy touch. They’re comfy yet structured, making the outfit feel put-together without effort. My Golden Goose sneakers are my go-to for long days on my feet. I finished the look with a bright pink MLB cap to keep things casual. Caps are my favourite accessory – they add a relaxed, effortless vibe and a pop of colour when needed.”
Her secret behind a good outfit: "Balance. Whether it’s balancing silhouettes, textures, or colours, I think the key is creating harmony, even in contrast."
Her style icon: "My mother, she styles so many beautiful vintage pieces and always looks effortlessly cool."
A fashion hot take: "Just because it’s trending doesn’t mean it deserves space in your wardrobe! Personal style over fast fashion cycles."
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: "Never buy something just because it’s cheap or on sale. If you wouldn’t pay full price for it, you probably don’t love it enough to justify it."
Her best thrift find: “My mum found it in Japan – a vintage 2001 Dior saddle bag in pristine condition.”
Name: Goes by Olive
Age: 20
Occupation: Student
Tell us about the fit: “My top is from the Australian brand In Lieu, my shorts and shoes are from Adidas, and my socks are from Uniqlo. I wanted to mix it up by pairing a bright yellow sweater with athletic shorts — two very different styles, but I thought they’d make an interesting combination.”
Her secret to a great outfit: “Find clothes that fit you well. Even the plainest pieces can look effortlessly cool when the fit is just right.”
A fashion hot take: “I’m a big fan of mixing patterns – when done right, it can look seriously cool and effortlessly bold.”
A fashion tip she learned the hard way: “Stepping out of your comfort zone is key. Trying different styles was the best way for me to figure out and curate a look that truly feels like mine.”
Her best thrift find: “I once scored a pair of Kate Spade heels.”
Name: Maddy Breteche Lo
Age: 29
Occupation: Content creator
Tell us about the fit: “My sunnies are from Gentle Monster, the top’s from a random store in Dubai, and the pants are by my friend’s brand, Wear Bums. I’m wearing Birkenstock sandals to keep it comfy. For accessories: hoops from Malaysian jewellery store Myjn, a Casio watch, and a bracelet stack from local brands across Southeast Asia and China.”
Her secret to a great outfit: “Wear all black. Sure, you might look like you work at MAC—but honestly, you can rarely go wrong with a full black fit.”
Her style icon: "The Olsen twins."
A fashion hot take: “Dresses over jeans need to make a comeback."
A fashion tip she learned the hard way: “Just because it looks great on your Pinterest board doesn’t mean it’ll work on you. Find outfit inspo from bodies that look like yours!”
Name: Goes by Wei Bin
Age: 24
Occupation: Works in fashion marketing
Tell us about the fit: “I usually start with a good base. This time, it’s beige wide-leg trousers from Japanese brand Neonsign, which I picked up in Tokyo last year. The grey tee is a thrifted piece from Morgan Homme, and the sweater’s a find from Johor Bahru. My Jil Sander derbies are from Vestiaire Collective. I tend to keep my outfits timeless and neutral, but I like experimenting with textures and patterns. For accessories, I wear the same daily set: rings from Taobao, necklaces from Kyoto and Katong Flea Market, and a vintage Swisse watch. A solid accessory game always elevates the look – and having a go-to set just makes life easier.”
His secret to a great outfit: “Proportions, silhouettes, and confidence. Knowing what suits your body and personality – and owning it – is key to pulling off any look.”
His style icon: “Brad Pitt and David Beckham. Their street style in the ’90s was absolutely unmatched.”
A fashion hot take: “Sticking to one ‘aesthetic’ and extreme brand loyalty limits your ability to dress better."
A fashion tip he learned the hard way: “Finding a style that suits your personality is crucial. I’ve tried edgy, loud styles that just didn’t feel like me – I was uncomfortable and lacked confidence. My advice? Understand yourself and how you want to be perceived before diving into style. Developing your own taste takes time and exposure to more than just fashion – it’s about how you experience the world.”
His best thrift find: “My best find was an ‘80s Issey Miyake Skyline bomber for about $150. I’ve seen it listed online for over $1,000.”
Name: Belicia Gwee
Age: 27
Occupation: Model
Tell us about the fit: “My top is from Snidel, a popular Japanese brand. I was feeling a bit more girly, so I went with that. The skirt is a classic denim Calvin Klein, and my boots are from DMK – they’re so comfy.”
Her secret behind a good outfit: "My mood. When I feel good and confident, everything just looks better."
Her style icon: "Miss Jennie Ruby Jane, always!"
A fashion hot take: "Always wear items and clothes that fit your body shape best."
A fashion tip she learned the hard way: “Don’t always follow trends. It’ll wear you out eventually if the style doesn’t truly resonate with you.”
Her best thrift find: "A Jennie x Calvin Klein purple dress for $5."
Name: Edo Lio
Age: 27
Occupation: Content creator
Tell us about the fit: "My bag is from the Thai brand Frank Garcon, which I picked up in Bangkok. I love its stuff – bold and functional. The top is from Urban Revivo, paired with Levi’s jeans from the women’s section because, let’s be honest, the cut is just better. For accessories, I wore a silver serpent ring I made myself at a silver workshop in Bali, which I later turned into a necklace.”
His secret to a great outfit: “It’s all in the energy. You can wear the most basic outfit, but if you feel amazing in it – it shows. Confidence and a bit of contradiction are key. If the outfit is clean, I’ll mess up my hair. If it’s loud, I’ll tone everything else down. Balance is everything.”
His style icon: “Not a specific person, but honestly, the locals in Ho Chi Minh. I’m obsessed with the fashion scene there – everyone’s style feels effortless, experimental, and totally their own. It’s a great reminder that personal style doesn’t need to follow trends to feel fresh.”
A fashion hot take: “Men’s and women’s sections are a scam. Some of the best pieces I own weren’t technically meant for me – but they fit better, look better, and feel more like me than anything else.”
A fashion tip he learned the hard way: “Just because something is trendy doesn’t mean it suits you – and that’s okay. I’ve fallen into the ‘it-girl uniform’ trap before and ended up looking like a lost extra. Now I ask myself: ‘Do I like this, or do I just like it on someone else?’”
His best thrift find: “I found a beautiful winter coat at a secondhand market in Italy – it’s structured, timeless, and makes me feel like a Milanese grandpa in the best way. Sadly, I can’t wear it much in Singapore.”
Name: Calista Elizabeth Wong
Age: 23
Occupation: Realtor, content creator and freelancer
Tell us about the fit: “I thrifted my top from JalanJalanJapan in Malaysia, but it’s actually from the Singaporean brand GG<5. My bubble skort is from local blog shop Supergurl, and my shoes are the Inter Miami Sambas from Adidas. For accessories, I kept it simple: a cross necklace from By Invite Only, a Seiko watch my boyfriend gifted me, and a ring! I love the silhouette of my halter top – it’s tight but flares out, creating that snatched look. Paired with the skorts, it gives an hourglass illusion, which I’m all about.”
Her secret behind a good outfit: “This might be cliche, but I always gravitate towards clothes that I feel comfortable in – whether it’s the fit, texture, or how easy they are to wear. I need my clothes to be fuss-free; I don’t want to constantly adjust them. When you feel good in an outfit, you look good! Because of this, I tend to be an outfit repeater – I know what works for me. So sometimes I dress a little basic and less experimental, but I feel good in them regardless.”
Her style icon: "Content creators Ashley Alexander and Isa Sung. I definitely want to dress more like Isa- girlier, more fun and experimental, but most times, I feel like I lean towards Ashley’s aesthetic, comfortable, safe, but still cute."
A fashion hot take: “You don’t have to wear stockings with everything! They can be cute as a layering piece, but sometimes… they’re really not needed. Take off your lace and coloured stockings, please.”
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: “Don’t buy clothes just because they’re on sale – buy only if you’ll get maximum mileage out of them. It’s about being mindful of consumption. I used to shop for sale items just because they were cheap, only to realise I was buying them for the price, not because I truly liked them. Now, I always think about how I’d style a piece and if it’ll fit with what I already own. If I can wear it multiple ways, I’ll cop it.”
Her best thrift find: "My best thrift find so far would have to be my fluffy, reversible jacket. It’s not something I can wear in Singapore (obviously), but I always bring it with me when I visit colder places. It’s travelled to Europe, Korea, and Japan with me! I love it because I can style it in multiple ways, and I got it for just $5, so it’s truly a gem."
Name: Nicole Lee
Age: 26
Occupation: Filmmaker
Tell us about the fit: "My top is thrifted from the now-defunct Peace Centre, the jacket is from Cloop, the pants are Lovet, and my shoes are from DMK. Unfortunately, no accessories this time—I have terrible time management and always end up rushing out the door. I built the outfit around my top, which I’ve been told gives off Nezha vibes (the character from the Chinese animated movie). I love outfits that strike a balance between feminine and masculine. From afar, I could either be a killer super spy or a kindly librarian."
Her secret behind a good outfit: "Dress according to how you feel! On days when I want to feel fierce, I go for a killer winged cat eye. On days I feel soft, my eyeliner slopes down. I believe fashion should reflect and amplify how you feel inside. Once you dress in a way that aligns with your emotions, you’ll feel confident – and that always makes the outfit shine."
Her style icon: "The drag queen Utica has out-of-this-world fashion creations. I would steal her wardrobe even though I have nowhere fancy enough to wear them."
A fashion hot take: "Socks don’t need to match. I love accessorising, so if my socks don’t match, that’s double the opportunity to elevate any outfit. Socks should just be thematically related. I mean, look at Matthew Gray Gubler."
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: "It’s okay to take time to find your style, and it’s okay for your style to evolve. I used to think that if I dressed goth-like, I had to fully commit to the goth aesthetic to be genuine, and I ended up limiting myself. But really, I could be gothic one day and bubblegum pink the next without feeling like a fake fan of either style. It’s all about buying versatile pieces that can serve multiple purposes."
Her best thrift find: "I thrifted at a shady store in Manchester and got an ugly Christmas sweater that says 'North Polo, Rudolph Lauren.' I wear it every Christmas without fail. I even bought one for my ex too – hope he treasures it like I do!"
Name: Jess Bergman
Age: 34
Occupation: Model and content creator
Tell us about the fit: "I wanted something casual yet elevated, mixing textures and structure. I love supporting Singaporean brands, so I mix high-fashion with High Street. My top is from Modparade, skirt from Isabel Marant Etoile, and silver trainers from Pretty Fit – super comfy and a pop of personality."
For accessories, I stack rings: my engagement ring on the left and dainty minimalist ones on the right. My bracelet is Van Cleef’s Alhambra collection. After losing several branded sunglasses, I found a pair at a souvenir shop in New Zealand for S$6 that I love. My bag is a vintage Prada Nylon shoulder bag – one of my favorite reworked finds.
Her secret behind a good outfit: "The secret is planning ahead! I’m not a natural stylist, so I draw a lot of inspiration from people I admire in fashion and Pinterest. For important events, I can spend an hour planning my look. And of course, accessories make all the difference!"
Her style icon: "I have a few and they alternate. Right now, I’m loving the fashion content creator Styled Sara. Her styling is very me; minimalist, with pops of colour, and elegant."
A fashion hot take: "A strong look doesn’t need designer labels all over it. As Jenna Lyons puts it: 'You can't have Alexander Wang on your back and Balenciaga on your bag.' It’s about subtlety – mixing brands without flaunting their names."
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: "Stop buying trends. Invest in long-lasting pieces. It will save on money and closet space."
Name: Zhang Yiwei
Age: 31
Occupation: Works in real estate
Tell us about the fit: "My top is from Sezane, skirt from Muji, shoes from Le Talon, socks from Tabio, and bag from The Paper Bunny. Socks are my favourite accessory, adding personality to my minimalist wardrobe. For a work event, I kept the palette navy and black for a clean look but added playful lame socks with black Mary Jane flats for subtle sparkle. The Paper Bunny’s cherry Arc bag is both stylish and sustainable, made from vegan leather and fits all my essentials."
Her secret behind a good outfit: "A good outfit should let me walk, jump, and run freely. Prioritise practicality, then add a pop of colour."
Her style icon: "I draw inspiration from brands like Muji, Plage, Margaret Howell, and Aritzia – clean lines and relaxed silhouettes. I also admire Japanese actress Ishibashi Shizuka – her characters often wear effortlessly styled pieces that reflect quiet confidence and care."
A fashion hot take: "Fashion doesn’t need to be expensive to be meaningful. I believe in investing in quality and comfort over chasing trends."
Her best thrift find: "A pale green sleeveless Polo Ralph Lauren shirt I found in a thrift store in the Netherlands for 20 euros (S$29.60). It’s become a staple in my workwear wardrobe."
Name: Looi Hui Ning
Age: 24
Occupation: Works in hospitality
Her fit: "For this event, I went for an all-white look. I wore a top from Chello, a local Singaporean brand, with ribbon details and ruffled cap sleeves. I paired it with a white silk skirt from Shu Shi, a popular Vietnamese brand, featuring delicate black lace trim. Long skirts are great for looking put together without too much effort. I completed the outfit with Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 in oatmeal and ginger peach. As for accessories, I’ve been wearing the Genevieve Eternal Heart bracelet from The Starry Co and the silver Leona necklace from By Invite Only."
Her secret behind a good outfit: "I love neutrals, but I keep it interesting by mixing textures like linen, satin, and denim. They’re easy to pair together without feeling repetitive."
A fashion hot take: "Jorts can actually be cute — when styled right, they’re a vibe."
A fashion tip she had to learn the hard way: "As a student, I used to buy clothes just because they were on sale. I learned that if it doesn’t match your style or if you don’t truly love it, it just ends up collecting dust. Now, I focus on high-quality, lasting pieces – saving money in the long run."