Broken Sovereign: A Fusion of Cultures in Fashion

Tan Wan Yee's Womenswear Collection Merges East and West

The collection draws its inspiration from a variety of sources, most notably the Tang Dynasty and Malaysian Chinese culture. Tan Wan Yee's designs reflect a unique fusion of Eastern silhouettes with Western outfits, resulting in a range of innovative structures and shapes. The designer's personal touch is evident in the bamboo print design, which represents the CHOR 9 BAI TIAN GONG FESTIVAL, a significant event in the Hokkien community in Malaysia.

"Broken Sovereign" stands out for its unique properties. The designs are a reflection of the designer's personality and a commentary on the cultural identity crisis among the younger generation of Malaysian Chinese. The collection serves as a reminder to never forget one's mother tongue and cultural heritage, even in a multicultural society like Malaysia.

The collection was realized using recycling and collage ideas, combined with draping techniques. Old clothes were repurposed to create new shapes and structures. The designs feature a mix of neoprene jackets and coats, and suede vests, tops, skirts, and dresses, making the clothes look more elegant. The jacket shape, inspired by the Tang Dynasty greeting pose, and the Tang Dynasty costume sleeve mixed with a trench coat, represent the constraint of the free liberation.

The collection, which consists of five womenswear looks in size 38, was completed in March 2016 and has been exhibited in Malaysia, Dubai, and China. The designs were born out of extensive research into the designer's family background, cultural history, and societal issues in Malaysia. Despite the challenges faced, such as the large garment shapes and long jacket lengths, Tan Wan Yee was able to produce a collection that is both personal and culturally significant.

In conclusion, "Broken Sovereign" by Tan Wan Yee is a testament to the power of fashion as a medium for cultural expression and social commentary. The collection, which has been recognized with a Golden A' Design Award, serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and identity in a rapidly globalizing world.