Meet Jasmine Chong, the New York-based Malaysian designer who is poised to hit the big time internationally thanks to a new reality show hosted by Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum
"My mother was also a designer," says Jasmine Chong, 32. "She would take me to the fabric store and encourage me to pick out a fabric that I liked, which she would then make into a dress for me."
Born in Selangor and raised in Damansara Heights, KL, Chong lived with her Indonesian mother and Malaysian father before leaving home to pursue fashion design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). She shares an anecdote from her childhood: "You know the movie scene that stayed with me 'til today? The one where Julie Andrews made clothing from drapes in The Sound of Music!"
Upon graduation, she worked with Anna Sui, Marchesa and Tory Burch before starting her eponymous label in 2016 in New York Garment's District.
New York has this way of making you feel like you can be anything. The sense of possibility is intoxicating. In many ways, I think it's why I'm still here.
Over email, Chong shares what it means to be on the New York Fashion Week roster, her fall/winter 2020 collection, and landing a coveted spot in the Amazon Prime's design competition, Making The Cut, which premieres tomorrow (March 27).
Who inspired you to be a designer?
My mother and grandmother. They both have such distinct sense of style. I'd watch them get ready for weddings and parties, and I still feel that they are the two most glamorous women I know. In fact, my entire family has been supportive in my fashion design pursuit. My mother sees it as "passing the baton," which is really nice.
What are some of the more important lessons you've learnt as a designer so far?
My first professional experience in fashion was with Anna Sui in New York. She is such an American fashion icon, and I'll always be grateful to have worked under her in the design room. She taught me to stay true to my voice and understand the importance of knowing my craft. There can only be one Calvin Klein, one Tom Ford — each designer has to find their own voice and stay true to it. I also spent time at Marchesa and Tory Burch — it was necessary for me to learn how American luxury brands operate.
Why did you decide to start your own label?
Growing up, my mother and I would walk into boutiques and there was always a sense of not being able to try something off the rack. We always had our clothes tailor-made for events and weddings, but what about the experience of being able to pick something off a rack in a high-end store?
It was a luxury I never had so I wanted to change that. We all know women in our lives who are strong and beautiful, and have different body shapes. I want my label to help widen the definition of what aspirational is.
Read also: Madame Wang, Founder & Designer Of Shiatzy Chen, Talks Past, Present And Future.