“In one of the country's most gentrified neighbourhoods, Zali Ismail's tent has become the last outpost of a dying local subculture.”
Every first weekend of the month, a white tent pops up at the concourse of Katong Square. Its hours are unpredictable, subject to the whims of its eccentric proprietor—Zali Ismail, 58, avowed metalhead and devilishly stylish elder. It houses Zali's travelling vintage clothing store, genially named Peacencheers. Established in 2000, the stall has become a fixture at the monthly Katong flea market, known officially as The Retro Factory, and is conspicuous among its tchotchkes and crystals as a temple of metal and grunge.
Aside from Delphic opening hours, customers know to expect a booming stereo and distinctive wares of unusual denim, band T-shirts, boots and the occasional leather. His idiosyncratic, '70s-inflected garb—leather vest and flared pants—has made him something of a local celebrity and he is still bemused whenever someone asks for a picture. “I don't understand why also, I
