Yvmin
Xiaoyu Zhang and Min Li are the duo behind modern jewellery brand Yvmin, and their unusual designs often incorporate crystals and sculpted silver. Based in China, the pair see their pieces as “body decoration” rather than outright jewellery. They really drove that point home when they created a custom prosthetic leg for influencer Xiao Yang, complete with a heart-shaped kneecap, and we’re intrigued to see what else this duo plan to make. Shop Yvmin here.
Toton
Toton Januar wants to “recontextualise Indonesian heritage”, which he states on his label’s Instagram page. He’s taking traditional garments like the kebaya and incorporating modern elements to it including sculpted corsets, lace trims and bright colours that include blues and pinks. Januar’s accessories give extra dimension to his unique styling, with woven hats, pearl earrings and scalloped bags that add texture to already patterned fabrics.
Shop Toton here.
Just in XX
Justin Yu-Ying Chou hails from Taiwan, and his label, Just in XX, has roots in streetwear, modernity and creativity. His recent spring-summer 2022 collection, shown at Taipei Fashion Week, was designed in collaboration with artist Paul Chiang and is an elegant example of how to do oversized pieces. Incorporating elements of his artwork in the fabrics and colours, Yu-Ying's striking collections feature large hats, long gloves, cocoon-like outerwear and extra-long accessories—all on-trend pieces that feel refreshed with Chiang’s colourful art.
Shop Just in XX here.
Bloni
Indian designer Akshat Bansal has a sharp eye for the future, and his website is a taste of the Metaverse with his pieces resembling wearable space-age uniforms. Bansal produces crisp tailoring, thanks to his training at Savile Row, and he leans mostly towards neutral tones alongside metallic fabrics. Bansal’s enlarged proportions aren’t overwhelming and, more importantly, he ensures that garments are created with individuality and quality in mind—he offers a bespoke, made-to-order service, as well as select ready-to-wear pieces.
Shop Bloni here.
Rui
Rui is the label on every stylist’s lips, and celebrities such as Ariana Grande and Olivia Rodrigo have been seen wearing the brand's funky cut-out pieces. Rui Zhou, the designer behind this label, has developed her own signature style—slim-fitting garments with extreme cut-outs, where artfully placed spaces are just as key as the fabric. Zhou blends knitwear, stockings and stretchy fabrics in a mixture of bubble gum bright and deep neutrals. While every collection’s cut-out designs become more intricate, her motto of body positivity and self confidence remains.
Shop Rui here.
Nong Rak
Work and life partners Cherry W Rain-Phuangfueang and Home Phuangfueang wanted to create unique knitwear using sustainable practices, and Nong Rak is exactly that. Originally a vintage shop, the couple sourced rare knitwear pieces with interesting details. Fast forward to today, and they produce their own fabulous clothing and accessories using leftover and deadstock yarn in a myriad of colours that are beautifully blended together. This American and Thai duo handmake each piece, so no two are the same. Shop Nong Rak here.
Behati
Kel Wen is the Malaysian designer behind Behati. Drawing from his multicultural childhood, he uses the hybrid nature of Malaysia in his designs. There are traditional Malay, Indian and Chinese elements distinctly present in his pieces, whether it’s a fabric pattern, a silhouette, or styling choice. Wen wants to preserve the crafts of his home in clothing that is reflective of today’s styles, and his spring-summer 2022 collection shown at Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week is indicative of that. Shop Behati here.
Hanacha Studio
A self-professed minimalist, Hana Cha’s designs reflect her sentiments. Hanacha Studio clothing has a sculptural quality to it, whether its manipulating fabric or using exaggerated fabrics and colours to create depth. Often inspired by art, Cha’s autumn-winter 2021 collection was influenced by Joan Miro, and she used signature symbols and circular elements throughout her pieces. The Korean designer is based in London, so she has the city’s architecture and museums to turn to for inspiration. Shop Hanacha Studio here.
NOW READ:
12 Best Fashion Looks by Asian Designers in 2021
Happy Birthday to Blackpink’s Jisoo: 10 of Our Favourite Looks
