My Tatler First: Serene Tan on Her Favourite Fashion Moments With Tatler

For Serene Tan, what makes a Tatler shoot or soirée memorable is often the ambience—and the friendships forged along the way

In celebration of Tatler Singapore’s 40th anniversary this year, we ask our closest friends to share their first—and favourite—memories of us for My Tatler First. Here, Serene Tan speaks to us about some of those special moments.

You can say that Serene Tan has an eye for beautiful things. Besides her and husband Benjamin Kim’s shared love of finely crafted jewellery, timepieces and art (as well as his enviable suit collection!), Tan appreciates the effort it takes to create the refined ambience and atmosphere that one has come to expect at each Tatler Singapore event, be it the Tatler Ball or the now-defunct Tatler Fashion Awards.

Take the Maximalism-themed 2018 Tatler Ball, for example. The fallen chandelier and gilded birdcage that greeted guests as they entered the ballroom of Capella Singapore took Tan’s breath away and reminded her of a scene right out of a Taylor Swift music video.

The society belle, who is herself quite the stunner often togged in modern romantic styles topped with a ready smile, looks back on some of her fond memories with Tatler Singapore as we turn 40 this year.

Above Serene Tan (top row, fourth from left) on Tatler Singapore’s September 2017 cover.

What are some of your first memories of Tatler?

Serene Tan (ST): The shoot for the September 2017 issue was memorable. There were eight of us on the cover (as part of a feature on luxury connoisseurs and the future of shopping) and it was interesting because the shots were taken in pairs and stitched together to make the cover. I had fun tossing popcorn (it was a prop for the shoot) in the air.

Which is your favourite Tatler shoot?

ST: It has to be the Tatler Singapore Jewels & Time cover shoot Ben and I did for the September 2017–August 2018 issue. It was more than just a fun photo shoot because we got to wear these beautiful watches and jewellery together with the elegant wardrobe that the Tatler team put together, which elevated my mood as I felt super confident.

Don't miss: Inside Benjamin Kim And Serene Tan's Minimalist Home

Above Tan at the 2018 Tatler Ball.

Above Tan and Kim on the cover of Tatler Singapore Jewels & Time 2017/2018.

And the most memorable Tatler Ball?

ST: Hands down, the 2018 Tatler Ball, which had a Maximalism theme. The Capella Singapore ballroom, decorated with a fallen chandelier and a golden birdcage, reminded me of the glamorous scenes in Taylor Swift’s Look What You Made Me Do music video. I love that song! The modern luxury and dramatic twist were different and appealing—it wasn’t just another ball.

Is there a notable fashion moment?

ST: Probably not one particular moment, but the 2019 Tatler Fashion Awards stood out. It was held at Violet Oon Singapore in Jewel Changi Airport. I was seated with Manoj and Kanchan Murjani, and we had a fantastic conversation. The restaurant was covered in foliage, like that surrounding the iconic fountain at Jewel. The dining tables, bar counter and photo walls were decorated to the theme of “Neon Jungle”. I loved it when the award winners were called to the stage and introduced by their friends. The best part was seeing our friends walk the runway.

What is a Tatler tradition you love?

ST: The pre-Tatler Ball Dressing Room, a series of events organised to decode the theme of the Tatler Ball. I love being part of the Dressing Room because you get styling inspiration and can make a down select of potential purchases for the Tatler Ball.

Above Left: Tan at the Tatler Indonesia Ball in 2019. Right: Tan and Kim at the 2019 Tatler Fashion Awards.

If you could host a dinner party with five friends you’ve met through Tatler, who would be there?

ST: Susan Peh, who has one of the most beautiful personalities. She’s brilliant, sharp and kind, and is someone who’s not opinionated about her accomplishments. I respect and share that.

Chiang Yu Lan, who has this beautiful passion for living life well. She consistently gives her all, and you can feel it. That’s an incredible drive, and you want to be just as zealous and strive for the extraordinary in every area. I have the same outlook.

Emily Wang, who is a fantastic cheerleader. She calls things the way she sees them and always speaks the truth in a loving way. I’m also sincerely honest, which I see as a virtue.

Grace Chong-Tan, who has a lot of drive and determination. She’s competent and yet modest, sincere and never arrogant about her achievements. I love that balance.

Stephanie Lee—there’s something about her that you can’t quite put into words. She’s charming, sociable and upbeat. I also appreciate and share her sense of humour. She’s such a ray of sunshine that people can’t help but enjoy her company.

What are some hashtags you’d use to describe Tatler?

ST: #tatlerenlivensluxury, #tatleraniconicrhapsody and #dedicationtotatleraudience.

Any words for Tatler as we celebrate our 40th anniversary?

ST: My warmest congratulations on your 40 years of success. I look forward to seeing the Tatler team embrace and grow into their new roles, and seeing Tatler Singapore lead the luxury media market from strength to strength.

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My Tatler First: Serene Tan on Her Favourite Fashion Moments With Tatler