We’ve seen countless local brands come and go. Some were driven by genuine passion; others simply jumping on the bandwagon. Now, a new generation of creatives is steadily entering the scene with fresher perspectives and sharper ideas. We spoke to Project Slacks to gain insight into how the next wave of streetwear makers do the magic.
How have you been, and could you introduce yourself to our audience?
Hi I’m Dzakir, I’m 25, a dad and lately me and my family have been sick haha.
Can you tell us about Project Slacks and the story behind its beginnings?
I’ve always had a deep interest in fashion. I was into so many different clothing brands, but as a student, most of them were way out of my budget. That’s what pushed me to start creating my own.
What influences have shaped your creative direction?
I was inspired by artists like Yung Lean, Flansie, DC2Trill, and Lil Yachty, and drawn to brands such as No Rules, Fugazi, Asspizza, BAPE, 914NY, Stray Rats, Punk NYO, Supreme, and Palace.
How would you describe the current streetwear landscape in Singapore?
Culturally rich and youthful, it blends global influences with strong local creativity. I feel it has moved beyond being a niche subculture in Singapore, it’s now a visible part of youth identity, mainstream fashion, and retail culture. Fashion continues to thrive through community events, pop culture moments, and the ways young Singaporeans express themselves.
What is one aspect of the local scene that you feel needs improvement or rethinking?
One thing Singapore’s streetwear scene needs to seriously rethink is prioritising originality over hype. I’m seeing too many brands mirror what’s already been done instead of carving out something distinct — raw denim waves, for instance.
What is the long-term vision you have for Project Slacks?
The goal is to build a lasting brand that unites people, grounded in subcultures movement, built for function, worn with purpose, and sustained by community. I want it to be a platform where individuals from different scenes can come together under one shared identity.
If you are given a chance to collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
I’d want to collaborate with all my friends and maybe, Fugazi! Hahaha.
How do you see the current players in the industry, OGs versus the Gen Z? Is there hope to bridge the gap?
I don’t really see it as OGs versus Gen Z, it’s more about different speeds. OGs bring experience and depth, while Gen Z brings new energy and fresh ways of expressing it. At the core, both care about authenticity. When there’s mutual respect, the gap isn’t that hard to bridge, and that’s where the most interesting things happen.
What changes do you hope to see within the industry by 2026?
More Singaporeans to be open to changes instead of just comparing and judging.
Any last words or shoutout?
Shoutout to all the DIY kings out there FDW, XKEPT, THANKYOUFORLOOKING, Tripartite, IvoryTower, Duplicate and many more. Also shoutout to my family and my day ones. Y’all know who you are.
Interview with Dzakir of Project Slacks by Sophie Medina.
Images courtesy of Project Slacks.
A Suave Cartel Media original series, “BEHIND THE BRAND”.
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