Malaysian Fashion Designer Presents His Kerawang Inspired Wear to Kate Middleton

Last Monday at the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange (CFE) reception, Malaysian fashion designer ‘royalty’ Datuk Seri Bernard Chandran presented one of his exquisite designs to the Duchess of Cambridge herself, Kate Middleton.

The CFE that features designers and artisans from 53 countries aims to create partnerships between designing talents in Commonwealth countries. Bernard attended as the sole Malaysian representative with a garment heavily inspired by the kerawang (malay traditional cut-work) at Buckingham Palace in London, alongside other amazing designers like Stella McCartney.

The garment pays homage to the importance of Bernard’s cultural and traditional roots. By staying true to his brand, Bernard introduced a newly mastered geometrical version of the kerawang with a bustier silhouette and an extravagant floor-length coat to symbolise the Phoenix, queen of birds that originated from Chinese folklore. The garb has strong elements of songket (royal Malay brocade) and a colour combo of royal blue mixed with green to define a bold and brave outcome.

It is learnt that the bustier is treated with a modern edgier oriental embellishment and the songket is to help deepen his connection to the multicultural diverse worlds of Malaysia. The garment bears the perfect fusion of luxury fashion and updated tradition.

Check out more of Bernard’s work by clicking here.