As fashion in Southeast Asia continues to bloom and flourish, it seems one particular city has climbed to the top of the food chain. An eclectic scene that prides itself on reinventing the wheel while staying true to its traditions , Malaysia’s capital is known to creatives for its artisanal bars, buzzy art hubs and annual fashion extravaganza Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW). Housed beside the iconic Suria KLCC shopping mall in August, KLFW 2024 was bigger and brighter than ever, boasting over 50 brands and approximately 13,500 show attendees.
The seven-day affair was held in a sprawling 12,000 sq ft show space, stretching from one end of the KLCC Park esplanade to the other. Within it was the main show hall, various fashion-adjunct booth activations and a large LED screen panel that live-streamed all the shows. This year’s line-up included a myriad of newcomers who were eager to showcase their vision and leave a mark.
Ready to-wear labels such as Ghostboy , Shals and Tact displayed collections filled with exuberance and vigour, making a statement alongside returning local juggernauts Behati, Alia Bastamam and Rizman Ruzaini. Among the list of must-see shows was MSYD’s high-octane presentation. A high-street brand that looks to merge bold design with cultural narratives, MSYD plays on themes of cyberpunk, dystopia and utilitarianism.
Behind the brand is 28-year old Malaysian designer Masyadi Hussaini Mansoor, whose burgeoning portfolio—one that includes winning the K.