Fashion Insider: Cassey Gan on Elevating Chinese New Year Collection With Eclectic Fabrics and Distinctive Cuts
Chic with a twist

Much like a canvas that transforms with every brushstroke, fashion evolves with the seasons, shaped by the evolving landscapes, cultural shifts and the fresh energy each season brings. However, the local scene marches to a different beat—it lives and breathes with the rhythm of the festive calendar. Each celebration brings a unique opportunity for designers to reinterpret heritage, blending bold new ideas with tradition to create collections that bridge past and present.
This Chinese New Year is no exception, with many exciting releases, including Cassey Gan’s vibrant lineup. True to its signature style, the Kuala Lumpur-based brand reimagines classic silhouettes with a dynamic mix of fabrics and fluid, non-conforming cuts—an unmistakable hallmark since its inception in 2014.
In this edition of Fashion Insider, we spoke with Cassey Gan on her ten-year journey in the industry and the inspiration behind her new collection.
What was your first memory of fashion?
When I was five, there was this white dress I loved—it had a metal hand palm placed at the waist. I never understood its purpose, but I thought it was such a unique and adorable detail.
How did you get started as a fashion designer and what inspired you to launch Cassey Gan?
When I returned to Kuala Lumpur from London in 2013, I was torn between working for someone else or creating something of my own. With no one hiring at the time, I decided to take the leap and started my own brand. My journey began with Blueprint, a fashion tradeshow in Singapore, where I showcased my first mini-collection. The response was encouraging—I made some sales, and that gave me the momentum to keep growing.
Who have been some of your role models or inspirations, and why?
Definitely my mum. Even though I didn’t have much interest in drawing as a child, I was always mesmerised by the way she used colours and created art. In terms of business, my dad has the biggest impact on me. He’s been an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember, and the way he runs his business with such integrity is something I want to mirror in my own business.
As for fashion, Alexander McQueen has always been my biggest inspiration. His collections took my breath away—so artistic and beautifully executed. Fun fact: I interned at Alexander McQueen for six months while studying in London, and the way they ran their operations certainly shaped my perspective.
Can you tell us more about your Chinese New Year’s collection?
While I’ve been building this brand for the past 10 years, it wasn’t until 2022 that I decided to create a special collection for Chinese New Year. Initially, I didn’t see the need, as my colourful pieces are versatile enough to be worn year-round. However, I soon realised that many people enjoy shopping for something exclusive for the occasion and this led me to create my CNY collection.
This year’s offering is an extension of the 19th collection I released last year, which centred around community, celebrating the individuals who’ve inspired me throughout my journey. Each look is named after our clients, drawing from their unique stories and personalities.”
What is your favourite piece from the collection, and how will you style it?
I’m really into denim pieces this time. It’s a fabric I’ve always wanted to experiment with, and for this collection, I’ve mixed it with other materials to add texture and depth, moving away from the typical one-dimensional look of denim.
What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started your label?
I’ve learned the hard way not to rush growth. There was a time when I wanted my collections to be in every department store, so I produced a lot of stock, but it didn’t sell. I had to clear it all myself, and that taught me a lesson I’ll never forget.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start their label?
Make sure you are truly passionate about what you’re doing. If you don’t love it enough, you’ll walk away when things get tough. It’s also important to develop a signature style, something that reflects who you are and what you stand for. If you’re just following trends or going after the mass markets, you’re losing what makes your work meaningful.
What hopes do you have for the brand in the years to come?
I want to do more things beyond fashion, perhaps into homeware. Ultimately, I want to be recognised more as a print designer, with fashion being one of the many outlets for my creativity. It’s interesting to think about it, especially since I never used to enjoy drawing—it’s been a big step forward for me.
What is your dream collaboration?
I’ve always loved a Mini Cooper, so it would be a dream come true if I could collaborate with them!
What would you be if you were not a fashion designer?
I’ve thought about this before, but honestly, I don’t have an answer because I love this job so much that I can’t imagine doing anything else.
For more fashion reads, click here.
SHARE THE STORY | |
Explore More |