The little red dot may be small, but its influence stretches far beyond its borders. For decades, Singapore has quietly been producing brands that not only define local identity but also win admirers overseas. These are names you have likely seen on Orchard Road or in your neighborhood mall, but what makes them remarkable is how they have grown from homegrown concepts into international players.
One evening, as I scrolled through Instagram, I stumbled upon a vintage listing of a Risis brooch from the 1980s. At first, I assumed Risis was a newcomer that had sprung up after the pandemic. To my surprise, the brand has been in operation since 1976, when it debuted at TANGS Orchard and sold thousands of its signature gold-plated orchid brooches within days. Risis even captured royal attention, presenting its orchids to Princess of Wales Diana in 1982. Personally, its delicate Vanda Limbata and Doritaenopsis Summer Red orchid brooch pendants (i.e., both plated in 24-karat gold and priced at S$140), are the ones I gravitate to the most.
Another name that resonates strongly with a younger crowd is Beyond The Vines. Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife duo Daniel Chew and Rebecca Ting, the label began as a womenswear brand before evolving into a lifestyle powerhouse. Its Dumpling Bags, which start at S$69, became viral sensations for being practical, stylish, and surprisingly collectible. The philosophy behind the brand is simple but powerful: to make good design “accessible to all”. That vision has helped it expand into markets like Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Australia, proving that thoughtful design travels well across borders.
Image Credits: instagram.com/beyondthevines
Of course, no conversation about Singaporean exports would be complete without Tiger Beer. First brewed in 1932, Tiger has grown into a symbol of bold Asian flavor, now enjoyed in more than 50 countries. Brewed under Asia Pacific Breweries, the lager is celebrated for its full-bodied taste and rigorous brewing process. At under S$4 a bottle in local supermarkets, it remains an everyday favorite at home while standing as a premium Asian beer abroad.
Charles and Keith is another brand that transformed humble beginnings into global recognition. Established in 1996 by brothers Charles and Keith Wong, the label began as a modest shoe store at Amara Shopping Centre. Fast forward to today, and the brand is a global fashion force, with a presence from Tokyo to Mexico City. Known for staying ahead of trends while keeping prices accessible, the brand continues to draw in customers with bestselling bags, sandals, and accessories. Lucky for you! Bestsellers like the Koa Square Push-Lock Shoulder Bag in pink (S$34.90), Chain-Strap Pointed-Toe Slingback Flats in black (S$41.90), Samala Triple-Strap Sandals (S$48.90), and the Pony Hair & Leather Ring-Handle Bag (S$135.20) are currently on sale on their website.
Image Credits: facebook.com/charleskeithofficial
And then there is TWG Tea, a name that has come to embody luxury in a cup. Founded in 2008, the brand is unmistakable with its iconic yellow packaging and exquisite presentation. Offering more than a thousand varieties of tea, along with patisseries and fine dining, TWG has carved out a niche in markets as diverse as Japan, France, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. It is an experience as much as it is a beverage, one that has positioned Singapore as a global tastemaker in the tea industry.
Even everyday staples have found their way abroad. BreadTalk, the bakery that many Singaporeans consider a fixture of daily life, has expanded across Asia with its famous floss bun and inventive pastries. With dozens of outlets in Singapore and a growing footprint in markets like Thailand and Myanmar, BreadTalk proves that comfort food transcends cultural borders.
Image Credits: facebook.com/breadtalksingapore
What ties all these brands together is not just their Singaporean origin but their ability to balance authenticity with global appeal. From the timeless elegance of a gold-plated orchid to the everyday joy of a floss bun, each brand carries a story of local pride and global ambition. Which brand captures your heart the most?
