Men With Style: Charles Yap, Owner Of The Decorum Singapore
The 52-year-old entrepreneur has fun with fashion while keeping it timeless and classy.
By Gracia Phang - published
Charles Yap was one of the The Decorum’s very first clients while he was in Bangkok holding a corporate post in 2017. It soon became his favourite place to shop; and in 2022, he partnered with the label to open a branch here in Singapore. While he often introduces himself as the “accidental retailer”, the entrepreneur’s foray into menswear was kismet, one that he describes as “living the dream”.
Often decked in finely tailored fits, Yap has fun with accessories and colour all while keeping it classic. “Clothes and shoes are omnipresent and very much a part of day-to-day life. Might as well make it fun, comfortable, long-lasting, well-made; and something you can truly enjoy every single moment of your waking hours,” he says.
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Tell us about yourself—your background and who you are now.
“I often introduce myself as “the accidental retailer”. With extensive background in marketing, communications and journalism working with corporations like InterContinental Hotels, Discovery Channel and CNBC, I pivoted into the world of menswear about five years ago, opening and managing a store with no prior retail or fashion experience.
While living and working in Bangkok (in a non-fashion corporate role) between 2015 and 2021, I got deeply involved in menswear as a client of the city’s leading shoes and clothing stores, my favourite being The Decorum. Over time, our relationship and friendship evolved, which led to my involvement as a business partner in the opening of The Decorum in Singapore.”
As host and curator at The Decorum Singapore, what exactly do you do?
“I own, manage and operate the Singapore branch of The Decorum, which as a collective now includes seven different concept stores in Bangkok, and one penthouse-style flagship in Singapore.
I work closely with my team to offer the best retail experience possible, through a carefully selected range of products, knowledge-led service and guidance, plus the city’s most robust calendar of trunk shows and artisan visits.”
What is the most treasured piece in your wardrobe, and why?
“My most treasured piece would be a 1980/81 double breasted navy blazer with gold-toned buttons from Polo Ralph Lauren. I had been tracking it for close to eight years. The search ended when I found a piece online by a Bangkok-based vintage clothing reseller. I flew in to view it, tried it on, and it fitted extremely well and came in a very good condition.”
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If you had to wear one brand for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?
“I love tailoring by Florence-based Liverano & Liverano, one of the brands we offer in store. I’d happily wear my growing collection of bespoke Liverano suits till I die; they are ultra soft and comfy, and offer that gentle embrace and super range of motion I feel no other tailor has been able to replicate. And of course, being able to fit into a suit into old age is a good thing: a sign of positive health and the ability to maintain my frame over a long period without any alterations.”
Favourite designer, and why?
“A favourite designer would be the late Giorgio Armani. He taught the world that real elegance doesn’t have to shout. His work is all about proportion, restraint and serving the person—not the other way around.”
What do you think is the most underrated accessory in menswear?
“The tie is the most underrated accessory, and the most beautiful. It’s not easy for men to introduce colour into their daily repertoire, but the tie makes it easy and fun. I find pleasure in wearing a tie almost every day.”
What does “Fresh Beginnings” mean and look like to you?
“Fresh beginnings is having the guts to pivot into something totally new at the age of 50, and not turn back. It’s never too late to reinvent and challenge yourself with something that’s the least expected.”
Charles’ Five Wardrobe Must-haves
1. A navy blazer
“I love mine, made by Sartoria Assisi.”
Polo Tailored Fit Wool Flannel Blazer, $1,429, Polo Ralph Lauren
2. A vintage Lee rider denim jacket
Vintage Rider Jacket 272, about $256.62, Lee
3. Gurkha shorts by Bryceland’s & Co.
“It was brand new when I purchased mine eight years ago. It’s vintage in the making.”
Gurkha Shorts Beige, about $338.25, Bryceland’s & Co.
4. My century-old Alphina doctor’s watch
“It’s the closest I’ll get to my childhood ambition of being a doctor.”
5. A pair of Shell Cordovan penny loafers
Crockett & Jones Harvard Dark Brown Shell Cordovan, about $1,263, Crockett & Jones at The Decorum
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