The second installment of Singapore’s Men’s Fashion Week has been all about mixing music with fashion; from the various performances to the guests, it’s been all about K-Pop and J-Pop to go along with the Korean and Japanese fashion labels on show.
While opening night on Wednesday, April 18, featured YouTube stars Sungha Jung and Megan Lee and a depleted 8eight – one of the three members was off on national service – it was the major drawcard of K-Pop star Se7en that most people were waiting for.
K-Pop sensation Se7en performing live at Men's Fashion Week 2012. Images: Wesley Kow
And last night the star was in fine form, filling the cavernous hall in the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre with the distinct sounds, moves and flashy performance that is the international phenomenon of the Hallyu Wave.
From his bling-bling outfit, gravity defying hair and slick dance moves – this guy can really dance; he did a one-hand handstand to the beat! – to the lighting, video projections and backing dancers, Se7en’s live performance was a mini K-Pop concert; complete with screaming fans.
Se7en shows he's got the moves during his performance for Men's Fashion Week. Image: Wesley Kow
Although there were a few hiccups with the sound – he called out a few times to get the backing tracks stopped so he could say a few words or grab some water – Se7en’s personality and charisma carried him through.
Saying he was very grateful for the opportunity to visit Singapore and perform a small “stage”, he also promised his screaming fans that he’d be back with a bigger production soon.
Most amazingly, this Korean star actually managed to get a roomful of haughty fashionistas to “stand up” for his encore! Despite the murmured complaints of impossible shoes, the fashionable ones made the effort and stood to clap along as Se7en pumped his fist in the air and smiled.
While this sort of excitement isn’t what you’d usually expect at a fashion show, it certainly made the whole night much more interesting – and neatly showed just why K-Pop is taking over the world.
Men’s Fashion Week Singapore 2012 will be held until April 22 at Marina Bay Sands, Convention Hall F. For more information about the various labels and events that will be happening, go to www.facebook.com/FideFashionWeek or fideproductions.com/mfw-events-2012 for the complete schedule.