Keep it small and cosy

Of their small browsing library, which is switched up every three months, Mr Lee says: "The best way to learn about fashion is to wear it. The second best is to read."

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Everyone, from curious tourists to serious collectors, like a Helmut Lang monogamist in his 60s, has wandered in. A DJ deck, a stockpile of soft drinks and Korean cup noodles are at the ready for after-hours hangouts.

Ms Chrisdee says: "It's like a second home."

For now, busy with full-time work or school, and mindful that they are loaning the space, the co-owners open the store from Wednesdays to Sundays, usually by appointment only. They have no ambitions of operating like a conventional retail space with fixed opening hours, windows and a bigger space.

It is enough that the attic can comfortably fit 15 to 20 people as it is cosier that way, says Mr Lee. Besides, the cost of standard operations would be too steep, he adds, referring not to overheads, but injury to their sensibilities.

He says: "For a proper store, we would have to chase the numbers, bring in lucrative brands like Louis Vuitton handbags. We wouldn't be able to put up what we really love."

Like what? The four parade a furry-holed Comme des Garcons sack of a shirt, an obnoxiously floral Undercover hoodie that looks like a few shirts sewn together, a bug-shaped handbag and a white Maison Margiela button-down with Polaroids stitched onto its back.