2024 Recap: A Year of Firsts, Crippling Anxieties, Overcoming Self-Doubts and Many Full-Circle Moments

A grounded beginning

We kicked off the year grounded—literally—at Athma Soulfest, a wellness pop-up at Katong Square. It was my first meaningful connection with Singapore’s esoteric and wellness community. I’ve always leaned into my spiritual side—blame it on my Pisces moon and numerology number 7 (no, I don’t see dead people 🤫... or do I?).

After a 2023 riddled with self-doubt, the turning point came during a psychic reading at the festival. The first words out of the psychic's mouth were, “Stop doubting yourself!” She explained that my guides were practically nagging her to deliver this message because they were exasperated with my hesitation, especially when I was on the brink of breakthroughs. Her words hit me like a clap of thunder—how could she know exactly what I had been feeling? That moment was transformative, sparking my resolve this year to trust my instincts and embrace imperfection.

In June we wear pink: Showcasing diverse voices and our special limited edition pink tie-dye collection

At the same time, we launched our Finix podcast, “You Can Sit With Us”—a playful nod to the iconic Mean Girls movie (because honestly, who doesn’t love a good catchphrase?). The podcast features a diverse mix of voices, including Shawn, who came out as pansexual this year, Max, who identifies as trans-masculine, and the fabulous Singapore baby queen, Opera Tang, who represents the non-binary, gender-nonconforming community. Through wit, warmth, and unapologetic authenticity, the podcast quickly became a platform to celebrate individuality.

Finix takes flight

The second half of the year was all about venturing internationally. Our first stop was Kuala Lumpur, where we showcased at the AEON Fashion Preview, followed by a collective showcase at the Singapore Pavilion at CENTRESTAGE in Hong Kong.

We then headed to Japan for Fashion World Tokyo Autumn Fair, marking our first trade show solo.

Hauling 40kg suitcases across borders, navigating steep train station stairs in Tokyo, and cramming into tiny business hotel rooms and Airbnbs made the trip a whirlwind.

Yet, the true highlight was our community pop-up at Tencups Lounge in Shibuya, Tokyo. We were honoured to host Tokyo's drag royalty, Labianna Joroe and Mia Scandals, with drinks generously sponsored by Silent Pool Gin, courtesy of Whiske Japan. The lounge’s Bali-inspired aesthetic perfectly complemented our refreshed Bali Sabi brand concept, creating a seamless and memorable experience.

The trip marked a personal milestone. At my pop-up, my Japanese friend Yoshi reminded me of a dream I had unknowingly manifested. Back in 2019, over a meal at a gyu-katsu joint in Shibuya—just metres from the pop-up’s location—I shared my vision of creating a fashion label and bringing it to Japan. Standing in Tokyo, with my brand on display, seeing that dream come full circle was surreal.

Behind-the-scenes: transformation and teamwork

This year wasn’t just about events and launches; it was about growth behind the scenes too. Early in the year, we embarked on a brand refresh, spurred by insights from a brand survey. What we uncovered led to a breakthrough—our new look and our FLOW Collection, which has been a game-changer. With its elegant designs and unique silhouettes, it showcases not only the Finix lifestyle but also our creative potential.

We also welcomed new team members who have brought fresh energy and ideas to Finix. From our first full-timer, Toh Su Jun, to our talented interns, Siti Amina and Tan Siimui, the camaraderie and collaboration I had with them have been invaluable.

A grand finale and new beginnings

November marked the unveiling of our refreshed brand identity, complete with a redesigned logo and the stunning Bali Sabi concept showcased through striking visual merchandising. It also saw the launch of FLOW, our new collection at the Boutiques Gifting Edition, where we showcased the full scope of the Finix lifestyle—a true testament to our creative evolution.

We closed the year with a heartfelt three-week pop-up at Pure Yoga Singapore, my wellness sanctuary and where my yoga journey began. Collaborating with my all-time favourite yoga teacher, Yun Ng, made it even more special. Yun was one of the pioneer teachers I frequented when I started yoga. Friends used to rave about her unique classes, where she’d serenade us in savasana with her soothing voice and a ukulele. It was pure magic. Bringing Finix to Pure Yoga felt like my yoga journey had come full circle—ending the year with gratitude and warmth.

We hosted two Finix-sponsored flow sessions to coincide with the launch of our new FLOW Collection. This signature ready-to-wear line features elegant silhouettes and experimental cuts designed for occasions that call for a bit more sophistication and flair. The classes included a special Spinal Flow session focused on back mobility and strength-building, as well as a "Flow Into Wellness" class that combined gentle flow, a juicy yin stretch and an immersive sound bath led by Yun. Both sessions were well-attended, leaving participants with a true Finix holistic experience.

Personal growth: Therapy and self-discovery

Amidst the hustle, my personal journey with therapy has been a game-changer. Connecting with my inner child and learning to see myself with compassion has been as transformative as any professional milestone. It’s a reminder that true growth begins from within.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look to 2025, I can feel the excitement brewing. Could there be a Finix store on the horizon? Where it’ll be, you ask? Let’s see where the fashion winds take us.

We’ll also continue our internationalisation efforts, building on the momentum in Japan and exploring new markets where demand has been growing.

2025 will also be a year of building and establishing more exciting and unconventional partnerships and collaborations, pushing boundaries and creating more exciting and extraordinary experiences for everyone.

Stay tuned for updates and more exciting news as we step boldly into the new year.