Introduction

In a remarkable twist of fate, former national swimmer Nicholas Tan, famous for clinching gold in the men's 4x100m freestyle relay at the 2007 SEA Games, has made a splash in the fashion industry as the founder of the luxurious leather goods brand, Aupen.

Transition to Fashion

Tan, 35, has successfully transitioned from the swimming pool to the fashion runway, where his creations have garnered attention from A-list celebrities, including Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. In a recent interview with Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), it was unveiled that Tan, who kept his role as Aupen's founder under wraps, is the creative force behind this burgeoning Singapore-based label, which launched in 2022.

Aupen's Rise

Aupen has already created a buzz in the fashion scene with its stylish bags, which retail for S$554 (approximately US$415). The brand caught the eye of luxury conglomerate LVMH Métiers d’Art earlier this year, announcing a partnership that highlights and supports skilled artisans specializing in exquisite leather craftsmanship and high-quality metal hardware.

Background and Experiences

It turns out, there’s more than meets the eye to Tan’s rise in the fashion world. Before establishing Aupen, he experienced a taste of fame when he was selected as one of seven models for a Dolce & Gabbana advertising campaign in 2014. His introduction to the fashion industry deepened while he owned a fashion showroom in Asia, showcasing the works of top designers like Dries Van Noten and Joseph Altuzarra.

Reflection and Education

In the WWD interview, Tan reflected on his diverse experiences, emphasizing how they shaped his desire to take center stage rather than remain behind the scenes. Raised in a nurturing academic household, with parents working in education, Tan also stated that he carefully managed his public profile to avoid being restricted to a singular role within any industry.

Academic Achievements

A Harvard graduate, Tan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and was instrumental in the growth of the e-commerce platform Garena, which transitioned into the wildly successful Shopee. His multifaceted career — from champion swimmer to fashion model to startup innovator — underscores a relentless pursuit of success across diverse fields.

Celebrity Endorsements

When discussing Aupen's growing celebrity fanbase, which includes names like Jennifer Lawrence, Olivia Rodrigo, and Selena Gomez, Tan playfully acknowledged their fortune. “They truly love them and use them,” he shared, highlighting the authenticity of celebrity endorsements that not only promote the brand but also enhance its credibility in the competitive world of fashion.

Conclusion

As Aupen continues to make waves, it’s clear that Nicholas Tan is not only defining his legacy in sports but is also paving his path as a formidable entrepreneur in the fashion realm. Stay tuned as this rising star dares to break boundaries and redefine what it means to lead a life rich with variety and success!