Khoon Hooi

Khoon Hooi (full name Lee Khoon Hooi) is one of Malaysia’s top fashion designers who, since launching his eponymous label over two decades ago, has won a plethora of prestigious awards and recognitions, become a regular participant at Paris Fashion Week, and dressed numerous renowned celebrities and the well-heeled from around the globe, including the likes of Fan Bing Bing, Stephanie Hsu, Tessa Thompson, and Zooey Deschanel.

Inspired by his tailor grandmother, with whom he lived while he was growing up, and who instilled in him an appreciation for beautiful things, Khoon Hooi studied fashion design and graduated from the Malaysian Institute of Art. While working as an assistant designer for women’s fashion label Voir and department store Isetan, he regularly took part in fashion competitions both locally and abroad to hone his skills and won several awards along the way including the Asian Young Designer award in Japan. In 1999, the designer founded his eponymous label, which became known for its artisanal craftsmanship, intricate embroidery, high-quality printed fabrics, and bold feminine silhouettes, with the annual Lunar New Year collection being the brand’s most anticipated releases.

Over the years, Khoon Hooi has established himself as a trailblazer in the Malaysian fashion scene, not just as a designer, but also as one who’s driven by meaningful purpose, particularly in championing sustainable fashion. His advocacy has led him to mark a significant milestone when he created 30 dashing uniforms for Belmond Group’s Eastern & Oriental Express, all using sustainable materials—a pioneering move in eco-conscious uniform design. “This project is just the beginning, as we continue to expand sustainability in fashion, both within Malaysia and across Southeast Asia,” he shares.

In the grand scheme of things, Khoon Hooi’s vision for the future is centered around leaving a legacy that not only defines his career but also touches the lives of others, “whether it’s through helping people feel radiant in my creations as they celebrate life’s special moments, or simply by being a good friend, a proud Malaysian, and myself.”