Former national swimmer and Harvard graduate Nicholas Tan launches Aupen, a groundbreaking accessories brand gaining traction in the fashion industry.
Nicholas Tan, an entrepreneur from Singapore, has emerged as a notable figure in the accessories market with his brand Aupen, which specializes in handbags and recently expanded into jewelry. Uncommon in the fashion industry, Tan was not raised in this sector; instead, he has a background as a former national swimmer who competed for Singapore at significant sporting events such as the Southeast Asian Games and World Aquatics Championship. His academic pursuits include a biology degree from Harvard University, highlighting his diverse skill set.
Tan’s career took a turn as he honed his business acumen in an Asian showroom. In November 2022, after gathering the confidence he needed to pursue his dream, he launched Aupen, a name derived from a combination of “authentic” and “open.” He emphasizes that the brand aims to “open your heart and open your mind” and asserts that he represents a rare presence of Asian talent in the accessories domain. The brand’s rapid ascent can be attributed to its reception by high-profile celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Kylie Jenner, who have been seen sporting Aupen bags, contributing to its popularity.
Aupen is now collaborating with LVMH Métiers d’Art, focusing on craftsmanship and luxury. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the brand as it rolls out its inaugural jewelry collection. The Sinner Earrings, the collection’s debut piece, are designed with an S-curve that nods to the Year of the Snake and are made from gold-tone metal adorned with crystals.
During a recent interview, Tan reflected on the motivational factors behind the creation of Aupen. He noted the success of the brands he previously represented, stating, “You get to the point where you ask yourself, Could I do that well if I was the lead singer and not doing backup?” He highlighted the transformative power of accessories, specifically handbags, explaining that they can elevate an otherwise simple outfit, making them a vital aspect of fashion.
Tan’s design process is characterized by a sculptural approach, where he conceptualizes his bags as malleable elements that require thoughtful shaping and structure. He draws inspiration from various environments, noting that the streets of Paris, New York, and Singapore offer a wellspring of creative ideas.
As Aupen continues to grow, Tan is keenly aware of market trends, particularly the rising appeal of affordable bags with unique designs. This aligns with consumer demand for individuality and design integrity, which he plans to incorporate into his offerings.
The expansion into jewelry allows Aupen to enhance its brand’s aesthetic, as jewelry can instantaneously modify a look, similar to his handbags. Tan revealed that lessons learned during this journey, particularly from LVMH about maintaining quality control, are vital in elevating the standard of Aupen’s products.
Looking forward, Aupen aims to maintain its disruptive nature by releasing designs not bound by the traditional fashion calendar. Instead, the brand plans to drop products as they align with consumer interests and market trends. As Tan navigates this evolving landscape, he remains committed to evolving Aupen, further enhancing the brand’s identity and craftsmanship.
Source: Noah Wire Services
