AFDS Designers shine in Indonesia

Celebrating Culture Then and Now -
AFDS Designers shine in Indonesia

On November 16th-18th, ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase was invited to showcase in
Spotlight Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia. Spotlight Indonesia is a fashion event that
consistently celebrates cultural diversity, literature and the stories behind them, while still
carrying a spirit of novelty. Presented by the Indonesian Fashion Chamber, this
collaboration is an important step towards promoting cultural understanding and
appreciation through fashion. By providing opportunities for designers from different
backgrounds to showcase their talents, AFDS and IFC are helping to break down barriers
and challenge traditional notions of beauty.

Spotlight Indonesia 2023 themed “Culture : Then and Now ” showcased the most creative,
thought provoking fashion designers from around the regent and international. Fashion
is about the future. But the richness of cultural background is our strength. Therefore,
Spotlight unites the past and the future to create a product identity for the Indonesian.

Chantique Boutique by designer Fadzil Hadin - Brunei

“Three decades ago, I embarked on a journey to Indonesia, completely unaware that it
would become the canvas for my dreams. Fate intervened when I forged a lasting
friendship with the fashion director and choreographer of numerous prominent
Indonesian fashion houses. Little did I know that this friendship would sow the seeds for
my own fashion label. In the thriving atmosphere of Indonesia’s fashion scene, my
aspirations took root, nurtured by the creative energy that surrounded me. Over the
years, I found myself immersed in the artistry of design, absorbing inspiration from the
rich tapestry of Indonesian culture. It was within this kaleidoscope of influences that the
concept of “Happy Dreamer” was born—a testament to the belief that dreams can indeed
materialise. The name itself encapsulates the essence of my journey, conceived at a time
when the notion of having my own fashion label seemed like nothing more than a distant
dream. “Happy Dreamer” reflects the optimism that guided me through the years, urging
me to believe in myself and embrace the possibilities that lay ahead. About a year ago,
the Happy Dreamer collection began to take shape. Fuelled by experimentation and a
desire to push the boundaries of conventional fashion, I found inspiration in the
extravagant styles of the bling ladies of Dubai. In a world where more is more, I embarked
on a creative journey to design pieces that not only stand out but also embody the
courage to be different. Guided by the stars above, the Happy Dreamer collection
represents more than just fashion; it’s a celebration of self-love and the audacity to chase
one’s dreams. As the collection evolves, each piece tells a story—a story of resilience,
creativity, and the belief that, indeed, everything is possible when you dare to dream. As
the year draws to a close, my creative journey takes a festive turn, mirroring the
celebratory spirit of the season. In crafting the latest additions to the Happy Dreamer
collection, I’ve delved into the world of shiny fabrics, experimenting with an array of
luxurious materials. The pieces come to life with the lustre of brocade, the opulence of
Taffeta, and the ethereal grace of Silk Chiffon. Draping techniques take centre stage,
allowing the fabrics to cascade in mesmerising folds and pleats. It’s a symphony of
textures and colours, a visual representation of the joy and vibrancy that the holiday
season brings. Each garment becomes a canvas for creativity, blending multiple fabrics
seamlessly to evoke a sense of opulence and sophistication. The tin techniques add a
touch of intricacy, creating patterns that shimmer and catch the light, reminiscent of
stars twinkling in the night sky. It’s a nod to the guiding stars that have illuminated my
journey, steering me towards the realisation of my dreams. In this season of festivity, the
Happy Dreamer collection becomes a reflection of the joy found in self-expression, a
manifestation of the belief that fashion is not just about clothing but a form of art that
speaks to the heart. As we embrace the holidays, these creations aim to capture the
essence of celebration, encouraging wearers to revel in their uniqueness and shine
brightly, much like the fabrics adorning them” says Fadzil Hadin.

The InSane Studio by designer Terry Yeo - Singapore

"Our Garden City", this collection is inspired by the contrast of the manmade and the
nature here in Singapore. Details like the knits and cords represent the plants and vine.
Most of the details are at the rear of the outfit, because it's like nature always finds ways
to survive. Using green and grey represent the greeny and the concrete scenery in our
city. All the fabrics used are recycled from previous collections and bespoke client
requests, this is so there is no waste of any fabrics but to create a new collection and give
it a new life” says Terry Yeo.

Pitnapat by designer Pitnapat Yotinratanachai - Thailand

“The inspiration is taken from Thailand’s sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange
and gold. The SIAM sunset bathes everything in a warm, orange light, creating a
breathtaking spectacle. Bathed in the warm embrace of Thailand's sunset, a radiant
orange light graces the sky, casting a spell of inspiration that dances with the rich
tapestry of Thai culture. This enchanting glow becomes the muse for a creation as
vibrant as the heavens themselves. Crafted from the finest chiffon and silk, the royal
attire takes shape, mirroring the elegance of traditional Thai regalia. In this sartorial
masterpiece, the artistry of fabric cutting transcends mere design, capturing the essence
of the sunset's hues. The chosen orange fabric flows like a river, embodying the regality
and grace of Thai heritage. Adorned with meticulous details reminiscent of royal
accessories and headdresses, each stitch tells a story of tradition and sophistication. As
the wearer dons this resplendent garment, they become a living canvas, embodying the
spirit of Thailand's majestic sunsets and the timeless allure of its royal lineage. This
fusion of nature's breathtaking spectacle and the intricacies of Thai craftsmanship
creates a masterpiece that transcends time, a testament to the harmonious dance
between tradition and contemporary elegance.

Bilang by designers Zulhelmi Kamaluddin & Fikri Afif Daud - Brunei

“At Spotlight, Bilang showcased its Spring Summer 2024 collection called 'Rendezvous'
which comprises of 12 thoughtfully curated outfits that takes its spectators on a journey
to Brunei's green exclave of Temburong to celebrate the country's rich cultural tapestry
as well as the lush Bornean rainforest that grace the landscape. The inspiration is
evident through the display of calm shades of blue, reminiscent of the tranquil Brunei
Bay that must be traversed in order to arrive at the rainforest nestled along the
Temburong district's trail, showcased through the swamp green outfits, before
transitioning to the rich browns emulating the natural texture and hue of tree barks.
Upon arriving in Temburong, one is greeted with a breathtaking exhibition of its culture,
adorned by the captivating palette of red, black and white - colours, including the use of
velvet fabric and pressed tree bark (called 'Kayu Tulun or Timbaran') - colours and
materials that are synonymous to the Lun Bawang community who are indigenous to the
district. Rendezvous incorporates intricate embroideries of local designs found on
Brunei's 10 and 20 cent coins observed since 1967 as stated in the Brunei Currency Board.
The captivating claw-shaped pattern represents an animal, while the vertical oblong
design is said to symbolise a tree. These remarkable patterns bear a resemblance to the
revered traditional Pua Kumbu motifs of the lban community. We wanted the collection
to be very wearable and versatile. Hence the selection of cotton, linen, denim as well as
other traditionally inspired motifs and materials. Each garment exuded a sense of
effortless sophistication that harmoniously fuses with nature, culture and contemporary
elements reflected in the silhouettes and fabric choices, aligning seamlessly with the
event's theme entitled Culture: Then & Now. In line with the event's vision to celebrate
different elements of culture including music, textile and film, Bilang is proud to
collaborate with Hanif Iqbal and ByeHai, two Bruneian musicians, to accompany their
runway show” says Zulhelmi Kamaluddin & Fikri Afif Daud

AFDS was developed to raise awareness and appreciation for the unique style and
diversity in the Asean region while promoting greater cross-cultural and creative
collaboration. Growing mainstream regional awareness for fashion designers and models
while nurturing up-and-coming, local fashion designers and models. AFDS will continue to
collaborate with Indonesia Fashion Chamber for more upcoming fashion festivals and
fashion weeks in Indonesia this year.

Photography credit : Indonesian Fashion Chamber