5 questions with singer/actor Benjamin Kheng

SINGAPORE — Benjamin Kheng is a man of many hats. Quite literally. He professed to have a penchant for hats — even as he denies being a “fashion label whore”.

“I find the sickest looking and fitting apparel in the cheapest places,” he said. “Although I am a huge sucker for hats of the Brixton variety.”

Outside of his fashionista ways, the ex-national swimmer is also an actor — he can be seen in the musical, Edges from now until April 19 — and is part of Singapore rock band The Sam Willows (they will be releasing a new single, Glasshouse, produced by multi-Grammy Award winning producer Steve Lillywhite).

Still, even though his competitive swimming days are over, Kheng reckons might still rock a Speedo — even if it’s only in his head.

“I got to a pudgy point sometime after retiring, but I’m on track to getting healthy again. It’s all about fictional fitness!”

Describe your personal style.

Bejamin Kheng: Muted colours, a good mix of mod, indie and classic. Also, accessories wherever possible and ethical.

Who would you say has had the biggest influence on your style, and why?

Perhaps the most intangible form of influence for me was the presence of steampunk in media (Bioshock, Treasure Planet): A unique blend of whimsical and stylish. It influenced me not so much to dress in steampunk, because aside from cosplay that would be ridiculous, but to be confident in my fashion choices.

What’s the best accessory for dudes?

A solid pair of all-purpose boots. The shoes make a man!

Biggest fashion faux pas you’ve ever committed. Come on, own up.

My post secondary school hair. It was like a beaver died on my head.

How important is style for a musician?

Adele would disagree, but music is a very visual thing today, and not just in the dressing. So many facets make a successful musician: Attitude, stage presence, picking shirts that minimise sweat stains, whatever it is, you’ve got to make it seems effortless. That’s the hardest part. There’s nothing less sexy than a musician getting smacked in his face by his suspenders.

Edges is currently playing at the Drama Centre Theatre, Black Box (National Library) until April 19. Tickets from ticketmash.sg