Eastern Renaissance: Luxury Fashion Designers Redefining the Industry from Asia

"What is Asia?" The self-reflection among luxury fashion designers rooted in Asia has gradually, but clearly made impressions on the long-standing dominance of Western-led luxury fashion. Their unique creativity seamlessly integrates new techniques and singular philosophies with timeless craftsmanship traditions. Their masterpieces, driven by a commitment to progressive innovation, are showcased on a global stage, evident in prestigious fashion events and retail scenes worldwide. Let's delve into those who are willing to take the initiative from Asia.

Reimagining Asia: Fashion Designers Rediscover Cultural Roots and Identity

The fashion industry, traditionally dominated by Western countries such as France, Italy, the US, and the UK, has undergone significant changes in recent years. The dynamic landscape now sees Asia, a region rich in unique cultures, craftsmanship, and world-renowned philosophies, taking center stage.

In addition to established fashion capitals like Shanghai, Tokyo, and Seoul, other Asian countries are also making their mark on the global fashion scene. Cultural masterpieces are emerging from countries across the region, and fashion weeks are now commonplace in Asia.

Southeast Asia Fashion Week, featuring designers from countries like Singapore, as indicated by its name, is just one example. Indonesia, Thailand, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam are also hosting their own fashion weeks.

This diversity in Asia is reshaping the fashion landscape, fostering a cultural and creative revolution in the industry. Exploring the unique cultural identities of each country is a fascinating journey, as individuals discover the myriad of creative expressions scattered across the Asian map.

Designers in Asia, eager to express their Asian identities, are reshaping Western-based patterns and silhouettes. These designers, based in Asia, are increasingly prominent at fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York.

Bloom of “Asian” creation: Who are the Emerging Talented designers?

Singapore

1. MAX.TAN

Source: MAX.TAN

Max Tan defies the norms of traditional fashion design. Graduating as a top student from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in 2006, he wasted no time in revolutionizing the industry with his avant-garde approach. The brand's uniqueness lies in its concept of "androgyny," which goes beyond traditional gender distinctions.

Breaking free from convention, Max's creations are a fusion of quirky cuts and minimalist aesthetics, reshaping the very essence of garment design. His bold vision catapulted him onto the global stage, earning him the distinction of being the first Asian-based label to showcase at Modefabriek in Amsterdam in 2010.

Source: MAX.TAN

But Max's impact goes beyond fashion. He sees himself not just as a designer, but as a garment engineer, constantly pushing the boundaries of tailoring techniques. His playful experimentation results in captivating silhouettes that are inspired by Southeast Asian garment archetypes.

2.  LISA VON TANG

 Source: LISA VON TANG

Step into the world of Lisa's Collections, where each garment tells a story of cultural exploration and personal heritage. Born and raised in Canada to Chinese and German immigrant parents, Lisa's upbringing provided a rich tapestry of influences that shaped her designs.

From the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to the historic workshops of Venice, Lisa draws inspiration from her global experiences, weaving together elements of tradition and innovation. Her collections reflect a harmonious blend of yin and yang, capturing the essence of her bi-cultural upbringing.

Taiwan

3. CHIAHUNG SU

Source: CHIAHUNG SU

Embracing its Asian identity, Chiahung Su's SS23 collection celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Austronesian peoples, with Taiwan as their ancestral homeland. Partnering with esteemed artist Yuma Taru, the brand delves deep into the cultural roots of these diverse indigenous communities, from Taiwan to the islands of Polynesia. Through the use of locally sourced materials such as cotton, linen, silk, and their own harvested ramie fibers, Chiahung Su and Taru pay homage to ancient traditions while embracing modern sustainability practices. This collaborative effort results in intricately woven textiles that tell the story of generations past while paving the way for a more conscious and culturally rich future in fashion.

JAPAN

4. Mame Kurogouchi

Source: Mame Kurogouchi

Mame Kurogouchi's creations, which could be described as somewhat autobiographical, intricately weave together tradition and nature, craftsmanship, and the latest technology, drawing from the designer's own experiences and memories. These collections express a timeless elegance through luxurious materials, original fabrics and patterns, and unique silhouettes that trace beautiful curves, offering a sophisticated and contemporary interpretation. Reflecting both modern femininity and a reverence for Japanese craftsmanship rooted in the land, Mame Kurogouchi's designs exude delicacy and depth. Their collaboration collections with Uniqlo have also garnered attention.

5.  ASATO NEW YORK

Source: ASATO NEW YORK

Asato's goal is to infuse new value into past traumas and negative experiences, affirming our lives. His relentless curiosity lies in exploring the intricate elements that make up human nature, delving into the labyrinth of thoughts and emotions. Born into a family that practices Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism in Japan, he was raised in an environment adorned with religious sculptures, myths, and Buddhist teachings. His relationships with family members and events within the household shaped his personality, forming his perceptions of the world and manifesting creatively as his sole expression. For him, fashion is fundamentally a means to “unearth the beauty embedded deep within our most painful tears,” seen as a healing space. This pursuit defines our collective existence as emotional beings for him, a reconstruction of the heart that accepts inherent imperfections.

Luxury Retail Ambassadors Tell The Story

MyBrands offers retail job opportunities with Singapore-based brands as well as renowned international brands. Once hired, employees undergo retail training and educational programs provided by World Mode Holdings, called CX Ambassador Program. These programs are essential as the industry constantly evolves and seeks individuals who can adapt to innovation. As dynamics change and there's a growing tendency to preserve cultural and ethnic heritage, Asia is poised to play a more significant role in the future of fashion. In response to this shifting landscape, MyBrands has introduced the CX Ambassador Program, aimed at helping newcomers in the industry navigate and contribute to the emerging fashion scene.