Chloe Wang, the founder and designer behind Cocoonese, is the brainchild behind a brand that brings vintage retro elegance to the modern woman's wardrobe while championing inclusivity and empowerment.

Q: Tell me about yourself!

Chloe: Hi, I'm Chloe, the founder and designer of Cocoonese. Originally from Taiwan, I have been residing in Singapore for over a decade. Our brand specialises in designing women's handbags with a vintage retro flair, crafted not only for everyday functionality but also to accentuate the beauty of women. 

Q: What does being inclusive mean to you and your brand, and how do you see that being played out in your workplace?

Chloe: Inclusive means not being selective. Rather, it means all kinds of women having the right to choose the life they desire. Hence, it is important that brands and workplaces can also do their part to enable that. For example, many of the tailors at Cocoonese are mothers, so we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate the diverse needs of women, particularly those balancing work and family responsibilities.

Q: What are your aspirations for the future of your brand, and how do you envision continuing to empower women and promote inclusiveness and diversity in the fashion industry?

Chloe: I would like to introduce more designs that represent Singaporean culture in an artistic and beautiful manner. Additionally, I believe fashion brands can inspire women through inclusive marketing campaigns, runway shows, and product features. This includes representing women of all ages, sizes, races, and backgrounds to reflect the diversity of our customers. 

Q: What is one simple action you think we can take to ensure that all women are included in our shared journey towards inclusiveness, equality and empowerment? 

Chloe: One simple action is to actively listen to women's voices. This means creating a space where they feel safe to express themselves.

Q: What is one message you would like to say to other women to inspire them? 

Chloe: Whatever you desire, think wisely, take action, and pursue it! When I quit my previous job and declared my brand-building dream, few, including family, believed in me. People questioned and doubted my abilities, perhaps due to my lack of a business background or because I am a woman. However, for me, these factors did not matter. I remained intensely focused and driven to succeed. 

Q: What are your favourite iShopChangi items for your daily adventures?

Chloe: JO MALONE's fragrance products, like perfumes and candles, are my personal and professional companions. They offer a sense of comfort and refreshment, helping me stay focused and inspired, whether I'm designing the next Cocoonese collection or enjoying a moment of relaxation.

And let's not forget Yashora, the fashion and beauty maven from Wah!Banana, who's making waves with her vibrant, playful but inclusive content. 

Q: What does being inclusive mean to you, and how do you see that being played out in your workplace?

Yashora: Inclusivity to me means having people from all walks of life represented. Be it different skin tones, body types, socioeconomic backgrounds, and the like. I would say content creation-wise, we have a long way to go in Singapore, but it’s heartening to see more creators of colour being represented and featured on platforms!

Q: What were some of the biggest preconceived stereotypes, challenges you encountered as a female content creator, particularly to your industry, and how did you overcome them? 

Yashora: The biggest one would be I’m just wasting my time taking pretty little pictures. People didn’t take this seriously as a career option, but now I make money from it! I don’t blame them, as content creation is a relatively new career option. I think just staying consistent and sticking to my gut that this was what I wanted to do proved to people that I’m determined. But I really started earning respect from people when I started working with brands and having them turn into recurring clients for me.

Q: How do you typically strive to ensure inclusivity in your day-to-day interactions, work and the content you create?

Yashora: I refuse to do reviews on products that are not inclusive (e.g., foundations with only 5 shades) and on skincare products that promote skin lightening. It goes against everything I believe in. I recently dropped a campaign because they wanted me to feature a foundation that didn’t even have a shade that fit me.

Q: As a content creator, how do you envision continuing to empower women and promote inclusiveness and diversity in the industry?

Yashora: I plan on doing this by standing my ground and highlighting inclusivity to brands. For instance, I declined a recent campaign due to its lack of shade diversity, as my audience primarily consists of women with deeper complexions. I understand that I am on the lighter end of the spectrum when it comes to being a South Asian creator, but that still does not mean I’m going to excuse this! 

In the future, I hope that voicing these issues will encourage brands to prioritise inclusivity, making the local beauty industry truly accessible to all.

Q: What is one message you would like to say to other women to inspire them? 

Yashora: Live life on your own terms. You don’t need to fit into the “ideal” that society has laid out for you. Really sit with yourself and ask yourself what you want in life, and go do that unapologetically.

Meet Karen Lam, second-generation business owner of Estetica and founder of skincare brands, ést.lab and Heure, who's turning heads with her innovations and striving to put SG beauty in the international spotlight.

Q: What has been the biggest source of inspiration to you and your journey as a female business owner in the industry?

Karen: The biggest source of inspiration came from a life-altering kitchen accident I experienced about ten years ago. Suffering third-degree burns on 20% of my body, I underwent multiple surgeries and physiotherapy for the next two years. This ordeal not only left physical scars but also deep mental and emotional wounds. As someone deeply immersed in the beauty industry, I grappled with self-doubt and insecurity, concealing my scars out of fear of judgment.

However, over the past decade, I've embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery. Through this process, I've learned to embrace my imperfections and cultivate self-compassion. I've discovered my 'why' and gained confidence in my purpose. Rooted in the beauty business, I aspire to inspire others to build their self-confidence through skin confidence, reminding them that beauty exists in life's imperfections, scars included.

Q: What does being inclusive mean to you and your brand, and how do you see that being played out in your workplace?

Karen: I think being inclusive means valuing and celebrating the diversity of individuals and their perspectives, experiences, and identities. In our workplace, we foster an inclusive culture where all employees feel valued, respected and empowered to contribute with their unique talents. I have been personally inspired by so many remarkable women I've had the privilege to work alongside over the years.

Q: What were some of the biggest preconceived stereotypes, challenges you encountered as a female entrepreneur in the industry and how did you overcome them?

Karen: Among the most prominent challenges is the misconception that women are primarily consumers rather than leaders in the beauty business. Additionally, there's often a stereotype suggesting that female founders lack the technical or business acumen required to succeed in a competitive market.

To overcome these challenges, I've chosen to lead by example, demonstrating my expertise, passion, and dedication to my craft. By building a robust team and fostering a supportive work culture, I've shown that gender is not a barrier to success in the skincare industry. Furthermore, I've sought out mentors who champion diversity and inclusion, helping to break down stereotypes and create more opportunities for female founders like myself. 

Q: What is one simple action you think we can take to ensure that all women are included in our shared journey towards inclusiveness, equality and empowerment?

Karen: I think one simple step we can take is to create safe spaces for people to hold open and honest conversations that challenge biases and stereotypes, whether it's at homes, schools or workplaces.

Q: Can you highlight any initiatives your brand has undertaken to promote inclusivity, especially with regard to females?

Karen: We are continuously seeking partnerships with social enterprises that champion inclusivity. In our recent festive campaigns, we collaborated with Hey Sprouts and Eden School, both dedicated to supporting the special needs and marginalised communities. Additionally, we actively participate in the Yellow Ribbon Project by employing female ex-offenders, and one of our initial hires has evolved into an exceptional therapist under our guidance.

Q: What are your aspirations for the future of your brand, and how do you envision continuing to empower women and promote inclusiveness and diversity in the beauty industry?

Karen: We aspire to expand and establish ourselves as a globally renowned brand. Our vision entails creating a platform where people from diverse backgrounds can thrive in the beauty industry, feeling empowered to express their unique identities without fear of criticism. We are committed to meaningful collaborations with like-minded partners to challenge beauty standards, dismantle obstacles, and provide opportunities for everyone to pursue their beauty aspirations. Together, we strive to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity in the world of beauty.

Q: What are your favourite iShopChangi items for your skincare routine?

Karen: My skincare must-haves are ést.lab's devices. The ést.lab VitaLift A+ SmartSculpt Buddy tackles morning puffiness, the ést.lab LumiGlow SmartSkin Buddy addresses skin concerns with targeted modes, and the OptimaLift A+ Intelligent Eye Revitaliser 2.0 together with the HEURE Flawless Serum rejuvenates tired eyes. These tools ensure I'm ready for any adventure, embodying our commitment to innovation and quality in skincare.

Q: What is one message you would like to say to other women to inspire them? 

Karen: You are capable, resilient, and deserving of every opportunity that comes your way. Embrace your strengths, pursue your passions, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Remember that you are not alone on your journey, and together, we can uplift and empower one another to achieve our dreams and create positive change in the world. Keep shining bright and never stop believing in yourself. 

So, ladies, stay empowered and be inspired with every story—or perhaps share yours with us!

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