Suzhou - Aung Phyoe Lynn, the visionary behind the homegrown T-shirt brand DAWN, has been featured in Singapore Global Network for his remarkable journey from corporate professional to innovative fashion designer. His story—from immigrating from Burma (Myanmar) to launching a culturally inspired brand in Singapore—is one of reinvention, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
A Bold Leap: From Office to Fashion Boutique
After years in Singapore’s corporate world, Phyoe made a daring career shift, leaving behind the security of a steady job to pursue his passion for design. With no formal training in designs, he relied on instinct, early-morning creative bursts, and the sharp market insights of his partner, Coco, who helps refine his ideas. His contemporary T-shirt brand blends minimalist aesthetics with cultural influences.
DAWN: A Name with Meaning
The brand’s name, DAWN, is a clever fusion of the Burmese word Daung (peacock) and the English word for first appearance of light in the sky before sunrise which can also mean a new beginning for the brand. The peacock, a symbol of beauty and prestige in Asian culture, is elegantly woven into the brand’s logo, representing Phyoe’s roots and his fresh start in fashion.
Boutique Like No Other: Peranakan Flair in Suzhou
DAWN’s first boutique in Suzhou, China, stands out with its Singapore Peranakan-inspired interior—vibrant tiles, intricate patterns, and a nostalgic yet modern aesthetic. The store is more than just a retail space; it’s a live feedback lab where Phyoe tests designs by displaying prototypes and observing customer reactions. “It saves money and helps me listen to what people actually like,” he explains.
Top-Selling Designs & Cultural Inspiration
Among DAWN’s most popular pieces is the “Live and Let Live, Always” T-shirt, priced at S$75. Inspired by Singapore’s multicultural harmony, the message resonates deeply with locals and tourists alike. “People don’t always read English,” Phyoe notes, “but when Coco explains the meaning to Chinese tourists in Mandarin, it clicks.”
Other standout collections include: Singapura and Back to the 80s Collections which are getting attraction amongst boutique shoppers.
What’s Next for DAWN?
Phyoe plans to expand thoughtfully, exploring pop-ups in Shanghai and Singapore while staying true to his small-batch, customer-focused approach. He also hopes to collaborate with more Singaporean artisans, further weaving traditional craftsmanship into contemporary fashion.
“DAWN isn’t just a brand—it’s a story of cultural pride, resilience, and fresh starts,” says Phyoe. With its unique designs and heartfelt narrative, DAWN is carving a niche in the T-shirt world, proving that passion and authenticity can turn dreams into reality.
Click here to read published article on Singapore Global Network