Ong Shunmugam: Traditional-inspired fashion at its best

At a point where consumption of fast fashion has reached its peak, beyond fathomable amounts, it is labels like Ong Shunmugam that have revived quality and aesthetic into the fashion industry – especially in Asia. The Singapore-based label holds one real vision and that is to focus on sartorial construction without disregarding wearability or comfort.

Designer, Priscilla Shunmugam constantly weaves intricate stories into her apparels. Since the brand’s inception in 2010, Priscilla has made waves with her smart renditions of the cheongsams (traditional Chinese attire). Her knack to fuse cultural influences into modern silhouettes is remarkable as is seen in her Autumn Winter 2013 ‘Whenever I Fall at your Feet’ collection that is inspired by old historic buildings in Singapore.

The exquisite clashes of prints and asymmetrical cuts may seem jarring at first glance but at closer look, they fit in like lock and key. Priscilla has now chosen to veer away from re-inventing traditional Asian attires and instead chose to dribble nuances of Asian elements into her modern-cut pieces. For instance, her use of Asian textiles such as Thai songket brocade, Indonesian batik and kimono fabric still remains as her cultural focal point.

Finally her meticulous eye for craftsmanship and sartorial elements is a huge visual treat for the wearer. The amount you pay, gives you a piece you will wear, keep, wear again and pass on to future generations – all while reminiscing stories of each wear. Additionally, Priscilla’s recent win of the Grand Award at the Design for Asia Awards 2013 only serves to further solidify her indubitable strength as a designer.

We can’t wait to see what creative genius Ong Shunmugam has to offer next season – and bag ourselves a dress fit for a queen!

Ong Shunmugam’s collection is available online. 

Tarandip Kaur

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