The fashion industry can barely keep up with Han Chong. In just a decade, the Malaysian-born, London-based fashion designer has solidified Self-Portrait as one of the leading womenswear brands, available in stores worldwide and boasting flagship locations in Beijing, Hong Kong, and London’s most affluent areas, Mayfair and Chelsea. Initially recognised for its affordable guipure lace dresses, Self-Portrait challenges the notion that “luxury clothes have to be expensive or extravagant,” a cornerstone of Chong’s groundbreaking entrepreneurial strategy.

This principle continues to guide Self-Portrait’s expansion, with a focus on entering the Asian market through a partnership with the Ellassay Group. Chong shares his vision for Self-Portrait to evolve into a lifestyle brand for modern women and how he is working towards that goal by introducing swimwear, bridal, and kidswear offerings to his loyal clientele.

In December 2021, Chong established a new holding company, SP Collection, through which he acquired the French label Roland Mouret. Mouret remains a significant part of the brand as founder and creative chair. This partnership has resulted in the incredibly well-received Resort 2023 and Spring 2023 collections that celebrate and rejuvenate Mouret’s signature techniques for the modern woman.

SP Collection is also an extension of Han Chong’s efforts to “discover, nurture, and develop best-in-class creativity and design,” following the recent establishment of a five-year scholarship programme with his alma mater, Central Saint Martins.