Sail Away in Style: Interview with Yacht 21 designer, Jaren Ho

I've always loved walking into the Yacht 21 store, which incorporates nautical elements such as the display yachts and old-styled oil lamps. Aside from a quaint layout, the brand is also known for its classical, timeless pieces as well as signature nautical-inspired apparels.

One of their current collections: Hotel de Cruz (clever play on words, Cruise...get it! ) was inspired by South Beach Art Deco; namely The Carlyle Hotel at Miami Beach. The Carlyle is an iconic location that has been used for photo shoots, television, as well as the setting of various Silver screen moments. Not forgetting the idyllic getaway for the likes of jet setters to entrepreneurial freethinkers.

One thing I love about interviewing labels, is knowing more about the ingénue behind the clothes and what makes them tick. When I met Jaren, I felt that there was an instant connection. Her warm demeanour was rivalled with the passion in her voice as she related what got her starting Yacht 21, a story that was nothing short of inspirational.

A former student in Civil Engineering, a gutsy Jaren decided to try her hand in something totally unrelated. It wouldn't be the first, as the budding entrepreneur had once came up with an unusual brainchild idea of making accessories from TCM herbs! Inspired by a rather funny sea voyage with friends that went slightly awry, she decided to merge that epiphany with her business vision of a cruise wear label.

Cruise wear is traditionally the dress code of vacations by the rich, so what better then to create great wearable and affordable clothes that suits our Asian tropical climate. Yacht 21 uses light and versatile materials such cotton, polin denim and microfiber - ideal for easy travel-packing,cleaning and iron-free. (finally, a designer who understands!)

Jaren draws her inspirations for the collections from the world around her; her well-dressed friends, the places and people she meets on her travels. The result? A fashion-forward collective of designs that's both cosmopolitan, but tailored to suit the Asian climate and silhouette.

Now for the fun part: I got the lovely designer to pick some of her favourite looks of the season and it was off to the changing rooms!

First, this Nautical Cheongsam Dress (traditional chinese dress) is given a contemporary twist; with its signature stripes and a pop of hot pink to turn heads! The material is lightweight and comfy, retrace your Chinese heritage with pizzazz!

Next, channel that effortless Riveria style and give those skinnies a rest. Take a loose-fit vest, a navy peplum bustier and rolled-up linear pants and what do you get? My boyfriend loves this look the best!

Get down to business and be the center of the boardroom meeting with this flattering navy A-line shift dress featuring slimming pleats in the skirting. This is THE fool-proof formula to effortless sophistication.

I loved this last look most. Being one who loves clothes with a unique touch;  this rope drawstring denim top, a unique lightweight casual piece with motif embroidery is tres chic! Definitely an #ootd worthy for those lazy sunday brunches with friends...

Yacht 21's YHT suitcase bag line adds a dash of retro-licious quirky to everyday wear, with its signature strips in various colours and semi-circle shape. It is fully lined with several compartments to fit your belongings without trouble.

And there is nothing I love better than fashion that gives back. Yacht 21's YHT suitcase bag line adds a dash of retro-licious quirky to everyday wear, with is signature strips in various colours and semi-circle shape. Partnering with Cape of Colors (a non-profit charity organization), its Bag-for Bag initiative means that for each suitcase bag sold, the label matches it to provide a under-privileged child a bag for school.

Retailing usually at $89.90, get it now at $59.90 and help a child :)

I was also proudly sponsored 2 outfits of my choice; while I took a dreadfully long time to decide, I eventually decided on this amazing jacquard coral printed tube dress as well as the rope denim top which is perfect for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

Thank you Yacht21 & Jaren for the amazing outfits and letting me into your personal journey.

Definitely one of the most fun interviews I have done up to date!

Do follow them on their  Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on the latest news and promotions!
Or beat the crowds and shop the latest collections at the E-store  at the very comfort of home.

Yacht 21 is currently stocked at the following:

- 200 Victoria Street #02-34 Bugis Junction Singapore 188021 5
- Raffles Place #B1-32 Raffles Xchange Singapore 048618
- TANGS PLAYLAB VIVOCITY, Level 1