Malaysia - Different strokes, different folks. Four Malaysian designers give their own take on native inspiration at Stylo.
Malaysia is made up of all sorts. There are those who abide by traditions and those who like to push the boundaries.
Our society is diverse and this point was clearly illustrated during the third gala evening of the Stylo Fashion Festival.
The theme of the evening was A Malaysiana Journey; it was a fitting title as four designers - Datuk Tom Abang Saufi, Edric Ong, Jendela Batik and Rizalman Ibrahim – took the audience, with their interpretations, through the experience of what it means to be Malaysian.
Whichever route they followed, all took off from native roots and inspiration.
The show began with the creations of Datuk Tom Abang Saufi. For Tom, Malaysia is about colour, a point of view that was clearly discernible in her designs. Her eclectic colour combinations and prints were displayed on fluid fabrics that were draped around the body.
From her collection, it is evident that Tom is a vibrant individual who loves having fun. Sarongs, tunics, wide-legged pants as well as flirty dresses were all presented. There was an element of 60s influence but it is clear that the idea behind it was light and summery. While her designs have a Western slant, Tom cleverly weaves in traditional Malaysian elements to fuse both cultures.
Her collection wasn`t just confined to women. She also showed some pieces for men. Again her young and contemporary approach was evident as she gives the guys an alternative to the classic batik shirt. Her look maintains the formality of the garment but with a modern edge that ensures the man makes a statement.
Edric Ong retained his ethnic theme in his collection. His focus appeared to be more conceptual and his intention was obviously to create some drama,as his trademark warrior looks were once again sent down the catwalk. The idea was to marry tradition and modernity as he used pua prints on outfits, shawls and wraps. Colours were mostly natural but there were some strong contrasting colour combinations. The idea is to say that you can make a fashionable statement while sticking to tradition.
Watching the collection of Jendela Batik, it has become clear that they have become the label of choice for the chic and sophisticated. They presented creations that you would expect to find in the wardrobes of high society women – the kind that is associated with old money.
Shades of gold were dominant for the evening collection in the form of raw silks, chiffon, satin and organza. For the gowns, the silhouettes were form-fitting but shawls, sashes and trains were used to add flair and a fanciful touch to an otherwise predictable fashion. But Jendela also offered some contemporary outfits. Using raw silk in strong hues and sleek silhouettes, the outfits conjured images of women who cross every “t” and dot every “i”, in their appearance.
And there was also a funky element as Jendela presented outfits that bore a certain likeness to those worn by icons of the 70s. There were jumpsuits, culottes and trendy caftans in bold colourful prints definitely out to make a statement. Versatile and modern, they can be paired with a pair of jeans or hot pants for a casual day out or while vacationing at a resort.
Closing the show was Rizalman Ibrahim who presented his bridal collection. But if the term bridal conjures images of puffy and fussy outfits with lots of beading, then you would be pleasantly surprised with what Rizalman had to offer. Rizalman`s approach is clearly to focus on simplicity and minimalism.
But those terms often conceal the intricacy of his craftsmanship. Rizalman is clearly a perfectionist and that can be seen in the fluidity of his outfits. The silhouette may be simple but the way it falls on the body is a testament to the precision of his construction. Rizalman is also clearly a thinking designer, one who adopts an intellectual approach to designing.
Once again his intent is to take the traditional Baju Melayu to another level by adding little touches give it an avant-garde feel (Rubin Khoo).
Source: thestar.com.my (25 Maret 2008)
