Men With Style: Riche Tay, Art Director And Film Creator
The 31-year-old is all about slowing down, appreciating the little things, and capturing subtle yet significant moments.
By Gracia Phang - published
Trained in graphic design, Riche Tay was drawn to visuals growing up—album covers, movies and campaigns. As a child, he didn’t necessarily know what “creative direction” was, but knew he wanted to make things that people could connect with on an emotional level. Over time, Tay found himself gravitating towards storytelling, with his works sitting somewhere between film and observation, creating something magical in the cinematic realm.
A sense of nostalgia blankets both his work and his personal style. Tay appreciates looks that feel lived-in and reflect a person’s habits and personality, like an extension of their being. Who he’d like to swap wardrobes with? Oh Hyuk from the South Korean band Hyukoh. “I like how natural his style feels: relaxed, instinctive, yet instantly recognisable.”
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Tell us about yourself—your background and who you are now.
“I’m an Art Director and Film Creator based in Singapore. I started out in graphic design, but over time I found myself becoming more drawn to storytelling—how visuals, sound, and everyday moments can come together to make people feel something.
A lot of what I create now sits between film and observation. I enjoy documenting the in-between moments: Tokyo streets in the morning, textures around the city, fleeting encounters, or simple routines that carry a cinematic feel.
My work is almost like a visual diary of how I experience life. Outside of creating, I’ve always been interested in personal style and aesthetics as well, even if it’s not always the main focus of my work.
Creatively, I’m still figuring things out, but that is also what keeps it exciting for me.”
How would you describe your style?
“Relaxed, understated, and a little nostalgic.
I’m drawn to worn textures, generous silhouettes, washed fabrics, and pieces that feel like they’ve lived a life before reaching you. A lot of my references come from workwear, vintage Americana, Japanese fashion, and people I observe on the street. I like clothes that feel effortless and personal rather than overly polished.”
Who do you look up to, and why?
“I am inspired by people who created worlds of their own. Not just celebrities, but creatives with a strong point of view.
I admire how people like Pharrell Williams and Nigo can move between fashion, music, culture, and design without being boxed into one thing. That freedom feels very inspiring to me.
In fashion and creative direction, I’ve always looked up to Nigo, how naturally he blends Japanese culture, music, lifestyle, and personal style into a world that feels completely authentic to him. In film, Sam Youkilis has been a huge inspiration. I’m drawn to the way he captures everyday life with so much feeling and atmosphere.”
What mantra do you live by?
“A mantra I’ve always loved is something Michael Jackson once said, ‘Study the greats and become greater’. I think it’s a reminder to stay curious, keep learning, and continue evolving creatively while still respecting the people who came before you.”
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The theme of our June issue is “Touch Grass”. What does the term mean to you?
“To me, “touch grass” is less about disconnecting from the internet, and more about reconnecting with real life again.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by constant noise and the pressure to always be creating something online. Some of the most meaningful inspiration comes from slowing down, and simply being present.”
If you weren’t a creative, what would you be doing, and why?
“Probably a bookstore curator. I like the idea of spending my days around books, magazines, and small discoveries—curating things that might mean something to someone else.”
What is your vice?
“Definitely fragrances. I think it’s one of those things I naturally collect over time.
Lately, I’ve been rotating between Le Labo Ylang 49 and Violette 30 quite a lot, and I’ve always loved Frédéric Malle too. I like scents that feel subtle and understated, the kind people only notice when they’re close to you.”
Riche’s Five Wardrobe Must-haves
1. A good black or white COS T-shirt
“Simple, easy, and something I end up wearing almost every week.”
Interlock cotton crew neck t-shirt, $69, COS
2. A nice pair of denim jeans
“ I like denim that feels worn-in naturally over time.”
Levi’s® Men’s 505™ Regular Jeans, $159.90, Levi’s
3. A leather bag
“Practical, but it also becomes more personal the more you use it.”
Leather shoulder bag, $4,450, Prada
4. A jacket with a worn-in look
“Something with a bit of character that only gets better with age.”
Wool double-breasted jacket, $5,350, Maison Margiela
5. Leather shoes
“They pull everything together without trying too hard.
Classic Derby shoes, about $1,273, Guidi
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