It’s no secret that Malaysia’s fashion labels have rapidly left a lasting impression on the global stage recently. What we truly love about our homegrown labels is their steadfastness in delivering exceptional craftsmanship, versatility, and comfortable pieces for our daily lives. Much like these footwear brands—which have successfully transformed our perception of locally-made fashion, setting new standards and redefining what it means to be a Malaysian-based brand.
1. Christy Ng
Christy Ng established her eponymous label in the comfort of her own living room, driven by the realisation that there was a scarcity of footwear brands catering to the needs of Asian women. Her vision was to craft designs that not only exuded high quality and style, but also provided utmost comfort at an affordable price point.
Today, with a widespread presence across the nation, Christy Ng has successfully reached a global audience and earned a well-deserved reputation as one of Asia’s most esteemed footwear brands. — Christy Ng.
2. Kulet
‘Kulet’, literally means skin in Malay, was established by best friends, Aina Syahirah and Julie Anne. Having been in the industry for nearly a decade, Kulet has successfully established itself as a prominent footwear label in Malaysia. Renowned for its minimalist and timeless designs, the brand caters to the needs of individuals leading fast-paced lives, ensuring comfort without compromising style.
Moreover, Kulet takes a strong stance against the use of animal derivatives, further solidifying its reputation as an ethical and compassionate brand. — Kulet.
3. Nelissa Hilman
Nelissa Hilman is a brand that caters exclusively to women, and has gained immense popularity for its unique approach to footwear. The brand’s success can be attributed to its focus on creating designs that highlight timeless elegance, intricate artistry, and utmost comfort. Every single piece of footwear is meticulously handcrafted within Malaysia, showcasing the brand’s commitment to preserving the rich heritage of the local shoemaking industry.
In an effort to promote authenticity and counter the fast fashion trend, Nelissa Hilman Nelissa Hilman only produces a small number of batches for each collection. — Nelissa Himan.
4. Machino
“The Soul of Malaysia,” Machino has revolutionised the concept of Malaysian footwear. With attention to details, the brand takes pride in its design process, handpicking premium materials, and ensuring precise craftsmanship. One of the standout features of Machino is its commitment to comfort, by incorporating a thick and firm sponge insole, specifically engineered to offer optimal support and balance for women leading fast-paced lives.
Machino further celebrates Malaysian heritage by infusing each piece with a unique story that reflects the country’s rich traditions and diverse backgrounds. — Machino.
5. Saoi
Saoi, which is pronounced as ‘Say’, is a fashion brand that delves into contemporary mannerism. Formerly known as WNS Studio, the visionary founder, Wan Nur Syaira, envisions a platform where talented designers, entrepreneurs, and garment makers can collaborate to curate a collection that celebrates the essence of Malaysia.
In addition to crafting fashionable and comfortable footwear, Saoi also crafts clothing pieces that encapsulate the stylish and minimalist aesthetics of the modern-day it-girl. — Saoi.
Featured image by Nelissa Hilman.
