Nicholas Tan isn’t your typical fashion mogul. A former national swimmer and Harvard biology graduate, Tan’s journey into the world of luxury accessories is as unconventional as it is inspiring. His brand, Aupen, a fusion of "authentic" and "open," has become a cult favorite, adorning the arms of celebrities like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Hailey Bieber. But how did a man with no formal fashion training carve out a niche in such a competitive industry?
Tan’s story begins far from the glitz of Paris runways. After representing Singapore in swimming at international competitions, he found himself drawn to the creative world of accessories. “It was about finding that last bit of courage,” Tan reflects, recalling the moment he decided to launch Aupen in November 2022. His brand, rooted in authenticity and openness, quickly gained traction, thanks to its unique designs and celebrity endorsements.
Now, with the backing of LVMH Métiers d’Art, Aupen is venturing into jewelry. Their debut collection, featuring the Sinner Earrings, pays homage to the Year of the Snake with an S-curve design. Tan’s sculptural approach to design—imagining bags as clay and crafting paper molds—has translated seamlessly into jewelry, offering understated elegance that transforms any outfit.
Tan’s vision for Aupen is clear: to create pieces that are both functional and transformative. “When a woman throws on one of our bags, it changes her whole outfit,” he says. This philosophy extends to jewelry, which he describes as an “elegant transformation.”
With LVMH’s expertise in quality control, Aupen is poised to elevate its craftsmanship further. Tan’s disruptive approach—releasing products outside the traditional fashion calendar—keeps the brand fresh and relevant. Drawing inspiration from the streets of Paris, New York, and Singapore, Tan continues to push boundaries, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead to the most extraordinary destinations.
