Over the years, the local fashion brands in East Malaysia have established a niche market with unique and high-quality products. In this region, with their diverse ethnicities and cultures, the designers are blessed with an intimate sense of place to create pieces that reflect Borneo’s natural beauty and enhance their designs with more creativity. Their personal stories and handmade touch have stolen the loyalty and hearts of many, too.
Here, we list down 7 of our local favourites hailing from the Island of Borneo you must check out.
Wynka
Borneo-based label Wynka is all about womanhood. True to its theme, the brand features enchanting dresses that exude a heavy dose of fun, youthful spirit and bright colours. As seen from its latest ‘Double Happiness’ collection, the pieces – with intricately embroidered prints and rich textures – combine comfort with playful elements while also being wearable for any occasion.
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RoaSkye
Fans of radiant prints and vibrant hues will appreciate RoaSkye’s creations. From flowy long dresses to playful jumpsuits, the majority of the silhouettes ooze the laid-back elegance of summertime. Inspired by the beauty of Borneo, the brand offers pieces designed from hand-selected fabrics as well as a steadfast commitment to zero waste in order to offer one-of-a-kind outfits.
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Talee
Talee, which is a play on the Malay word for “rope”, has made the act of tying knots fashionable. Inspired by the knot works that the founder Lorraine Lee’s father has taught her, the Sabah-based jewellery brand offers unique knot earrings and knotted charms – all designed with quality craftsmanship and washable materials. With the environment in mind, the brand’s creations are also custom-made, ensuring as little waste as possible.
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Left & Right
Drawing inspiration from the heart of Borneo, Left & Right was founded by duo Eileen Phoan and Fabian Tan, who found their passion for jewellery-making in university. The brand offers bespoke and made-to-measure jewellery pieces on top of ready-to-wear collections made from ethically-mined gemstones. Each piece features intricate botanical motifs and antique style, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Kuching, Sarawak.
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Kesya Fatin
Kesya Fatin is a namesake label crafting slow fashion and handmade beaded pieces in Kuching, Sarawak. From just a hobby to a lifelong career, Kesha initially produced eye-catching, handcrafted beaded bags. Since then, the brand expanded its offerings to include cardholders with detachable straps, phone case bags, custom tops, and even beaded cat collars and dog leashes.
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Bowerhaus
Co-founded by sisters Elizabeth and Shen-Tel Lee, the jewellery label Bowerhaus features accessories decked out in strands of pearls, semi-precious stones and sparkling crystals that are sourced from around the globe. Each collection from the brand is infused with vintage charm yet boasts a playful and modern twist. If you’re looking for something ultra-feminine, the Bow Necklace featuring fresh water pearls with a bow knot charm would be a perfect choice.
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Anting by Camilla
Based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Anting by Camilla focuses on minimalist jewellery pieces that are personally visualised and hand-sketched by its founder and creative director, Camilla Faris. Its offerings include classic and versatile necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that last when it comes to everyday wear. Adorned with precious stones and pearls, the Biwa pearl earrings and gold bands studded with quartz exude a timeless appeal.
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