Nicholas Tan isn’t your typical fashion mogul. A former national swimmer for Singapore, Tan once sliced through water at the Southeast Asian Games and World Aquatics Championship. But life, like a well-crafted handbag, has its twists and turns. Today, he’s the creative force behind Aupen, a brand that’s become the darling of celebrities and fashionistas alike.
Tan’s journey is anything but conventional. After studying biology at Harvard, he found himself drawn to the world of accessories. “It was about finding that last ounce of courage,” he reflects, sipping coffee in a Paris hotel room. In November 2022, he took the leap, launching Aupen—a name that blends “authentic” and “open,” symbolizing a brand that aims to open hearts and minds.
It didn’t take long for Aupen to catch fire. Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Hailey Bieber have all been spotted with Aupen bags, turning them into instant must-haves. Tan’s designs, sculptural and bold, are crafted to transform even the simplest outfits. “When a woman throws on one of our bags, it changes her whole look,” he says. “That’s the magic we aim for.”
Now, Tan is venturing into jewelry, partnering with LVMH Métiers d’Art for Aupen’s debut collection. The Sinner Earrings, with their S-curve design, pay homage to the Year of the Snake. Handcrafted in gold-tone metal with crystals, they’re a testament to Tan’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.
Tan approaches design like a sculptor, molding ideas as if they were clay. “I make paper molds to visualize the bags,” he explains. His Nirvana bag, launched in early 2023, features a braided texture and a seed-shaped charm, symbolizing the brand’s growth. “It’s a little idea you plant and water,” he says. “Now, it’s sprouting.”
For Tan, inspiration comes from the streets of Paris, New York, and Singapore. Aupen’s disruptive approach—eschewing the traditional fashion calendar—means new drops are always on the horizon. “We design for the girl who wants something unique, something that speaks to her,” he says. With LVMH’s guidance on quality control, Aupen is poised to elevate its craftsmanship even further.
In a world where brands like Manu Atelier and Polène are thriving, Tan believes customers crave design integrity and a unique point of view. “Our asymmetrical bags break conventions,” he says. “They’re eye-catching, versatile, and designed to fit seamlessly into any wardrobe.”
From swim lanes to runways, Nicholas Tan’s journey is a testament to the power of courage, creativity, and a little bit of magic. And with Aupen, he’s just getting started.
