Amidst the seemingly never-ending interest in international branded goods, fortunately, our insanely talented bag designers are also beginning to get noticed for their amazing work. These designers are bright stars in the growing galaxy of makers in the country, writing their own chapter in the fashion scene.
Comprised of both widely recognised and up-and-coming names, this list showcases ten local-based designers who, through their designs and approach to fashion, are showing us just what Malaysian ingenuity can and should be:
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1) Sometime By Asian Designers
Sometime By Asian Designers is a brand that co-designs with renowned Asian designers including Alia Bastamam and Rizalman. Every bag is semi-handmade, and the label has developed a high-quality synthetic leather that emulates the durability and aesthetic of genuine leather. Access the label’s website or head over to FashionValet and Zalora to shop.
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2) Livlola
Founded by two sisters who are passionate about making fashion accessible to everyone, Livlola offers bags for various occasions and in different styles to accentuate individualism. Providing a superior shopping experience at affordable prices, drop by FashionValet or the brand’s website to check out the offerings.
3) Eastmaya
If you’re in the market for statement-worthy clutches that will draw eyes from a mile away, EastMaya’s handmade bags are worth checking out. Each piece is intricately beaded with crystals and embellishments to create breathtaking designs, and you will be able to find out more via Eastmaya’s official website or on FashionValet.
Sophia By Shirley is a family business established in 2016, named after the designer’s baby girl. The handmade bags are produced with the finest fabrics in cheerful patterns hailing from Japan and each bag is one-of-a-kind, so you’ll never worry about someone else owning the same thing. Learn more via Facebook or the brand’s website.
5) Mel & Molly
Mel & Molly was established by two best friends who have contrasting personalities. Who knew that they’d make such a good team as far as bags are concerned? Expect to find the brand’s clutches, backpacks, totes, shoes and more in elegant yet practical designs on FashionValet.
6) Nala Designs
Known as the queen of patterns, Nala Designs is made for those who just can’t get enough of prints. These hand-drawn designs don’t only look remarkable, but also have a story behind them – each one is either inspired by Malaysia’s melting pot of culture, architecture, language, and even nature. Find out more on the brand’s website or on Fashion Valet.
7) Repleat Co
Designer Debbie Leung takes cue from artistic innovations such as Moorish architecture and Japanese origami for her designs, which are then translated into bags that are machine-cut, hand-assembled and adorned with handmade handles. Customisation is also possible! Shop Repleat Co or access its Facebook page if you’d like to know more.
Oddly enough, the founder of The Chic Initiative, Hui Ling, had a banking career before dabbling into bag-making and discovering her passion. Find conversation-pieces that are fit for the evening, ranging from bold clutches to exquisite minaudières. Connect with the brand via its website or on FashionValet.
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9) Biji-Biji
With a mission to advocate sustainable fashion, Biji-Biji Bags believes in creating solutions through design, embodying style via mindful alternatives without compromising design aesthetic. Visit Biji-Biji’s official website or go on FashionValet to view the offerings in its entirety.
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10) Sakura Malaysia
Founded in 2012, Sakura Malaysia has a mission to re-instill love towards local textiles including batik and mengkuang fabrics. The brand fuses heritage and fashion-forward trends into its designs, and you can either pop by Sakura Malaysia’s boutique at Kota Damansara to shop, or go online via its website and on FashionValet.
