YOU can tell a Khoon Hooi design by the combination of vibrant colours, structured fabric and play on volume.
There’s a particular sheen to the garment, which is often enhanced by beadwork and feathers. It’s a look that Khoon has refined after more than 20 years in fashion and his boutique in APW, Bangsar, bears testament to his taste and design aesthetic.
His recent collaboration with FashionValet retains these key elements of his brand, even as they are watered down to keep the pieces at a certain price point.
“Notice the beading and feathers,” he says during a media event at FashionValet’s store in Pavilion KL. Indeed I can see them, on chemise straps and the hemline of blouses.
The collection comprises of specially designed tops, bottoms and two-piece suits that are voluminous, colourful and slightly shiny. The designs are feminine but not girl-ish, with a casual but still dressed-up feel.
One of the highlights of the collection is the puffed skirt (it has pockets!) with a floral pattern that comes in lilac and coral pink. The same fabric is also made into sweaters with visible back zippers and wide-legged cuffed trousers.
“We wanted to evoke the feeling of spring with the colours and floral patterns. The material is brocade so you can see the flowers pop, like a 3D effect,” says Khoon.
Also available are two-piece checkered suits in blue and green, with the jacket a lapel-less, double-breasted design. Khoon also included shirts and blazers, to further enhance the collection’s appeal as office wear.
While Khoon’s ready-to-wear collection can run into thousands of ringgit, the price for the FashionValet collaboration ranges from RM169-RM229. The difference is most noticeable in the quality of fabric used, although Khoon’s thoughtful design touches somewhat make up for it.