Fashion

CNY 2023: The best ready-to-wear collections by local designers

Xin nian hao!

04.01.2023

By Phyll Wu

Images courtesy of respective brands
CNY 2023: The best ready-to-wear collections by local designers

There are two types of Chinese New Year shoppers. Those who work with designers for made-to-measure pieces long before the celebrations, and those who grab whatever they can at the very last minute. With Chinese New Year right around the corner, if you’re reading this, you’re most likely the latter—but don’t fret, you don’t have to opt for tacky Chinese New Year-themed apparel from fast-fashion retailers that you may never wear again. Simply look to our talented Malaysian designers and you’ll find plenty of stunning, finely crafted, ready-to-wear options that all your aunties will surely swoon over at the reunion. Scroll ahead for our round-up of the best Lunar ’23 collections by local brands that you can grab off the shelves now!

*We will be adding more to this list in the coming weeks when more collections are released, so do keep an eye out for updates! In the meantime, check out our round-up of the finest Lunar ’23 collections by talented Malaysian designers here.

 

Melinda Looi

Released under the designer’s new sub-line, Mell by Melinda Looi, this festive collection boasts an extensive variety of Chinese traditional wear for him and her with a whimsical yet traditional approach. Simple silhouettes are elevated with striking hues and eccentric prints, such as a Mandarin vest top decked with colourful flower details and a slip-on dress adorned with doodles from Melinda Looi’s brilliant daughter, Maya Luebbert.

Shop the collection here.

 

 

 

Maarimaia

Dubbed The Modern Orient, Maarimaia’s Lunar New Year ’23 collection comprises of both made-to-measure and ready-to-wear pieces that honour classic artisanal techniques with a modern spin. Designed for the contemporary woman, each piece is a fusion of traditional Eastern heritage and the brand’s signature codes of modern feminine silhouettes with a timeless elegance. From relaxed casuals to dramatic asymmetrical cuts, qipao dresses are crafted with the finest of brocade fabrics, accentuated by statement embellishments such as handmade Chinese buttons with vivid contrasting colours.

Shop the collection here.

 

 

Behati

In true Behati fashion, the brand’s 2023 Chinese New Year collection, dubbed Busana Cina, presents an assemblage of traditional contemporary pieces with a futuristic cyber-retro concept, added with a touch of nostalgia. The brand’s signature oversized silhouettes and utilitarian elements are seen throughout the collection, not forgetting its famed Baju Cheongsam Corset that is now available in new varieties!

Shop the collection here.

 

 

Ghostboy

Ghostboy fans, you’ll love this one. The Malaysian label has unveiled its 2023 Chinese New Year collection and we’re sure it’ll be snatched off the racks in no time. In fact, a number of pieces have already been sold out! The eccentric collection sees stunning printed qipao tops created in collaboration with tattoo artist Lullapalluzza, versatile bodysuits with bare-back cutting, silky mini qipao dresses and tassel skirts, amongst many others. The star of the collection? A gorgeous printed Waterfall Qipao Dress with thigh-high slits and lilac tassels.

Shop the collection here.

 

 

Hanya

And for Hanya fans, your favourite local brand came in clutch too! The brand’s 2023 Chinese New Year selection features a variety of casual and stylish options that can be worn beyond the celebration season, such as the elegant Willow Dress in Opulent Red and the Heather Skirt in Indigo. Not forgetting its Lunar exclusive Mei Jacquard Top and Skirt in Sapphire, a sophisticated and modern festive set adorned with oriental motifs for a traditional touch.

Shop the collection here.

 

 

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