While the Lunar New Year is known for large family gatherings and social activities bubbling with excitement, this year’s celebrations will no doubt take a dramatic turn no thanks to the restrictions brought on by the pandemic. However, that’s not stopping the luxury world and international brands from celebrating the Year of the Ox – even if we can only keep our traditions at home or take them to video calls.
With that said, in the spirit of staying strong together and making the most out of every situation, do #SupportLocal and refresh your wardrobe with these gorgeous Chinese New Year collections by 6 of our local designers.
Brian Khoo
Inspired by lush garden vignettes, the beauty of nature, and Oriental décor, Brian Khoo marries refined elegance with upscale casual to create a truly chic line. The collection features meticulous details, the use of satins and crepes, and a touch of gold detailing that pays tribute to the Kintsugi technique. The brand has also partnered with Borneo-based knot design house Talee Studio to help create a series of handmade intricate knot and loop designs to complete the look.
With offerings available for men, women, and children, check out the full lookbook on the official Brian Khoo website. For more details and ordering, email info@briankhoo.com.
Khoon Hooi
Khoon Hooi delves deep into Chinese heritage with the launch of its Chinese New Year 2021 collection, featuring contemporary Qipaos and Cheongsams alongside an Oriental reinterpretation of modern pieces such as culottes and mini shirt dresses. Some of the collections’ highlights include the Yan modern Qipao with bell sleeves, and the Hui halter neck dress in peony brocade.
Order online here.
Behati
Bold yet effortless, the Baju Cina 2021 by Behati goes full modern with its festive designs that can also be paired with casual items. Think rich, jewel tones tones, high gloss satin, and exaggerated sizes to make a statement this Lunar New Year. While pieces like the Cheongsam Jumpsuit and Hamfu cloak-inspired dress are great for an effortless look, one can play with textures and styles with more unique items like the Cheongsam Corset Top and the Signature Taffeta Samfu.
The collection is available for menswear and womenswear, and can be ordered online here.
Innai Red
Innai Red honours one of the most vibrant and energetic locations in Kuala Lumpur – Chinatown, this Lunar New Year. The campaign features festive shots taken around Chinatown, with its practical yet stylish designs that reflect nostalgic oriental elements. Rich, vivid colours and traditional chinoiserie motifs take centre stage of this feminine collection, breathing new life into tradition.
Browse the lookbook and order online here.
Melinda Looi
Unveiled as part of the Cruise 2021 Collection titled PengYou (朋友), this line is celebrates humanity and friendship (at just the right time too) through a unique collection of Cheongsams, casual wear, evening gowns, and cocktail dresses. Whether you wish to go simplistic and casual, or elaborate and funky, this collection offers a myriad of styles, patterns, and colours that you can play around with.
Preorder online here.
Celest Thoi
While you’re more familiar with her bridal offerings, Celest Thoi has also launched a special Chinese New Year 2021 collection to help enliven the festive season. The collection reimagines traditional wear with modern elements, such as peplum cuts, an overlapped mandarin collar, and taffeta balloon flare skirts. The designs also come alive as most of the dresses are adorned with dainty blossoms, adding a splash of freshness to the festive season.
Preorder online here.
Photos courtesy of the respective brands.
