For Trotter, her inspirations, she said, come from women in general — friends, work colleagues and “ultimately, our customer”. “I think a lot about what I want to wear — I covet easy pieces designed in an intelligent way,” Trotter added. “I’ve always disliked clothes that don’t function or aren’t practical — clothes are meant to be worn as well as admired.

“I like the idea of creating a uniform: My wardrobe is made up of white shirts, jersey basics, oversized coats and blazers, jeans and black pants. Proportions and fabrications change every season, but my sense of style is consistent.”

Trotter’s personal fashion essentials include a masculine overcoat, tailored black pants and a white shirt. “I am a tomboy at heart! And I gravitate towards menswear classics. That, and a pair of white sneakers, defines my style,” she said.

Trotter, who will be in Singapore for the store’s launch, also shed some light on how women here can achieve the brand’s signature effortlessly chic look — despite the sticky, hot tropical weather.

“Each collection is designed to be a functioning, trans-seasonal wardrobe. There are silk and crepe pieces in the Autumn Winter 2015 collection (that are) great for the humid climate — the silhouettes are loose and fluid,” she elaborated. “The concept of the collection was to invoke a feeling of cocooned protection, developed in both thick cashmere knits and luxe lighter fabrics.

“The Asian market is more receptive to new ideas; people are willing to push the boundaries,” said Trotter . “In Europe, people tend to have a clear idea of what they want (but they) gravitate towards the more familiar.”

And what are Trotter’s top three style picks from Joseph’s racks that would best suit our climate? “The Matte Silk Max Dress, the Patchwork Darl Top and the Crepe Jagger Trouser,” she said. “(They are) fluid, easy shapes in light silk or crepe, ideal for layering.”http://www.knittingfabric.cc/