The fashion designer dubbed as Malaysia's King of Fashion offers a refreshed take on men's designs with Figure by Bernard Chandran at Fahrenheit88, Kuala Lumpur
The bright decor and aesthetics of the Bernard Chandran boutique, where romantic gowns and feminine silhouettes are showcased, contrasts the all-black and industrial feel of his latest outlet, Figure – located a level below Dato' Sri Bernard Chandran's bespoke and ready-to-wear women's boutique.
With an ornate vintage matador jacket on display plus visual art by the designer himself on the walls, Figure is an extension of Dato' Sri Bernard's esteemed menswear range, with a space dedicated for dapper men in search of sporty or vintage-style jackets as well as elaborate suits.
Showcasing austere coats and jackets featuring preppy tartan textiles and the more flamboyant baroque, the boutique highlights that there is still an appeal to brick and mortar establishments within this internet age. We spoke with Dato' Sri Bernard Chandran after a quick photoshoot of him and his sons, Trunan Lournard Chandran and Terimunite Lournard Chandran, to discuss his muse for men's fashion and the ways in which he creatively transforms 'uniform' looks into stylish getups.
What made you decide to open your menswear boutique under the already established brand, Figure Fashions?
"Well, I bought over Figure Fashions because of its level of craftsmanship, and wanted to add to it. While the team behind the label still retain the classic tailoring elements of their suits, like their touch of classic details such as the vintage-style jackets inspired by the '70s and '80s, what I intend to do is to amplify the look. Perhaps mix the fabrics and do some patchwork to update the designs and give it more of an appeal.
Essentially we're still using the DNA of the classic cut but, we are making it more contemporary, so the brand's followers are ready for Figure by Bernard Chandran as we move forward with it."