In an exclusive interview, Mr. Hayden Ng, the founder of the ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase (AFDS), shared his thoughts on promoting the rich fashion heritage of the ASEAN region. He explained that AFDS was created to highlight Asia’s often-overlooked fashion traditions. While Western fashion is popular worldwide, Asian fashion also has many beautiful traditional styles, like the intricate kimono from Japan and the colorful sarees from India. AFDS aims to showcase these unique styles and the cultural stories behind them. This platform has allowed ASEAN designers to display their work at various global events, celebrating Asian culture and heritage.
One of the main challenges AFDS faces is funding. As a nonprofit platform, many designers have to pay for their participation, which can be tough, especially for those from less wealthy countries. Mr. Ng mentioned that modern technology, like translation apps, helps overcome language barriers, making communication and collaboration among designers easier. Since starting on April 1, 2016, at Orchard Library, AFDS has grown a lot. The showcase has been part of many fashion weeks across ASEAN and beyond, including successful events in Nanning, China, and collaborations in Kazakhstan and Milan. Today, AFDS represents 40 designers and 30 models, showing its growth and strength. Support from partners like the Indonesian Fashion Chamber has been crucial for the success of events like ASEAN International Fashion Week.
Designers are chosen based on their style, professionalism, and approach to design and life. AFDS is dedicated to promoting slow fashion, focusing on perfect fits and high-quality fabrics. The showcase also supports sustainable practices by promoting local fabrics and using AI technology for designing digitally printed fabrics, which helps reduce waste and preserve cultural heritage. Mr. Ng envisions making AFDS a globally recognized event, like ASEAN International Fashion Week, to bring ASEAN designers’ unique styles to international fashion capitals. This effort aims to encourage cross-cultural exchanges and inspire new global fashion trends.
Through AFDS, Mr. Ng hopes to show the rich diversity and creativity of ASEAN fashion. The showcase aims to increase awareness and appreciation for ASEAN designers and models, helping people understand the vibrant fashion industry in the region. By nurturing local talents and promoting cross-cultural collaboration, AFDS hopes to inspire the next generation of fashion designers on the global stage. AFDS plays a vital role in advancing the fashion industry by encouraging innovation through cross-cultural exchange, creativity, and talent development. It provides a platform for designers to experiment and showcase cultural richness, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and understanding. Mentorship programs support emerging designers and models, ensuring sustainable growth in the industry.
“My vision for the ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase goes beyond the runway. We aim to establish a global legacy by elevating the recognition of ASEAN designers, models, and brand partners on an international stage. By fostering collaboration, celebrating diversity, and pushing the boundaries of creativity, we hope to leave a lasting impact that amplifies ASEAN’s vibrant fashion culture worldwide,” said Mr. Hayden Ng.