Men With Style: Timothy Koh, Fashion Buyer And Style Enthusiast
“Style is a form of self-expression—the ability to introduce yourself without having to say a word." - Timothy Koh
A fashion buyer for an international brand in Singapore for five years, Timothy Koh has since stepped away to pursue a different dream in another industry. But the 31-year-old entrepreneur’s interest in fashion remains, particularly where street style and hip hop culture intersect. Citing Pharrell Williams and Teddy Santis as his ultimate fashion icons, he believes that developing one’s personal style is a long but fun journey of self-discovery.
“Style is a form of self-expression—the ability to introduce yourself without having to say a word. That, to me, is the fun part of fashion. You feel and look your best when you’re comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing.” Sticking to the rule of “less is more”, Koh likes to keep it simple.
“Don Jon is my go-to romantic movie. I loved how Joseph Gordon-Levitt dissected the Hollywood definition of ‘love’ and portrayed the unattainable expectations of both genders.
Don Jon DVD, about $29, Amazon.com
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“Pharrell Williams is a massive inspiration on my personal style, and in particular, my love for jewellery. When jewellery on men was taboo, Pharrell was draped in pearls and decked out in rings. Never a follower of trends, he’s always in his own lane, and always pushing boundaries.”
Pharrell Williams at Chanel’s spring/summer 2022 show.
"The last thing I bought was a Chrome Hearts cap. I’ve always wanted one, but the process of purchasing one was an ordeal in itself.”
Koh’s latest purchase.
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“My signed pair of Off-White x Nike Blazer sneakers by Virgil Abloh is my most treasured item in my wardrobe. Virgil Abloh was a monumental inspiration in my fashion journey, and getting to meet him in 2017 was probably the greatest moment in my life.”
Koh’s autographed Off-White x Nike Blazer sneakers by Virgil Abloh.
"My favourite place in the world is Los Angeles, California, because of the music and culture I grew up with. The Fairfax district used to be my go-to, but I've recently visited Joshua Tree National Park—it’s one of the most peaceful and beautiful places I’ve ever been.”
“I had grand dreams of being Michael Jackson, a Power Ranger, and also Robocop.”
Bad by Michael Jackson, $39, Amazon.sg
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“If I had to wear a brand for the rest of my life, it’d be Queens-based label Aimé Leon Dore for its strong brand vision and urban aesthetic.”
Koh in a Aimé Leon Dore t-shirt, styled with a pearl necklace and cap.
“I grew up listening to hip hop and it gave me an insight into fashion and personal style. My favourite hip hop artistes were The Game, Dr Dre and 2Pac.”
Part of Koh’s collection of hip hop CDs.