Cover Beloved female-led fashion brands Ms. Read and Frankitas join forces this month to launch an inclusive women’s wear collection that celebrates authenticity (Photo: Ms. Read)
Beloved female-led fashion brands Ms. Read and Frankitas join forces this month to launch an inclusive women’s wear collection that celebrates authenticity (Photo: Ms. Read)
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Two beloved female-led Malaysian fashion brands joined forces to launch a women’s wear collection that’s both chic and versatile
In conjunction with Malaysia Day this September, two homegrown fashion brands, Frankitas and Ms. Read, launched their first collaborative women’s clothing collection, celebrating inclusivity, empowerment, and heritage.
Ms. Read, a pioneering plus-size fashion label known for promoting body positivity in Malaysia for over the past 27 years, teamed up with Frankitas, a brand renowned for its vibrant handbags and accessories crafted from traditional hand-woven textiles, marking Frankitas’ 10th anniversary in 2024.
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Above Gaya Subramaniam and Francisca Turner of Frankitas (left) with Kristy Yong of Ms. Read at the launch of the new collection at Bungalow18 by Frankitas (Photo: Ms. Read))
Gaya Subramaniam and Francisca Turner of Frankitas (left) with Kristy Yong of Ms. Read at the launch of the new collection at Bungalow18 by Frankitas (Photo: Ms. Read))
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The highly anticipated collection features kaftan dresses, kimono-inspired tops, and palazzo-style pants, each thoughtfully designed with intricate traditional prints in vibrant hues–a stellar combination that Frankitas is known and loved for. Designed with breathable fabrics that prioritise comfort and versatile cuts that flatter different body sizes, the collection boasts the inclusivity and timeless elegance that Ms. Read fans can always expect.
The pieces in the new collection reflect Malaysia’s rich cultural tapestry while embracing comfort and style, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Frankitas co-founder, Francisca Turner, expressed her excitement at the launch: “It’s a real honour for Ms. Read to even approach us. Ms. Read’s history is profound. Twenty-seven years is a long time to thrive in this industry and I am in awe. To me, this partnership is the start of a long-term relationship between the two brands.”
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Above Models in Ms. Read x Frankitas printed lantern sleeve top and printed wide leg pants
Above The Ms. Read x Frankitas celebrates individuality and being comfortable in your own skin, values that both brands cherish
Models in Ms. Read x Frankitas printed lantern sleeve top and printed wide leg pants
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A collaboration that celebrates authenticity, individuality and confidence, the collection was designed with the modern woman in mind, suitable for a relaxing holiday by the beach or even as formal-wear when styled up for a business meeting or an outing with clients.
“It’s all about integrating Frankitas’ colours, silhouettes, and prints with Ms. Read’s excellent craftsmanship, in terms of really knowing quality and making women comfortable. To me, that’s empowering,” adds Turner.
With its vibrant designs, the collection highlights traditional prints and colours, embodying both brands’ commitment to empowering women through style.
“This collaboration is a celebration of inclusivity, heritage, and the beauty of purposeful design,” says Ms. Read CEO Kristy Yong. “It represents the power of women coming together–blending tradition with modernity in a way that is both meaningful and timeless. Our goal was to create a collection that not only reflects Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage but also offers women fashion that is thoughtfully crafted for both comfort and style. I hope that when women wear these pieces, they feel a connection to the story behind them–a story of unity, empowerment, and pride in being unique yet part of something greater.”
Above A tote bad decorating workshop for guests (Photo: Ms. Read)
A tote bad decorating workshop for guests (Photo: Ms. Read)
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The launch event at Bungalow18 by Frankitas, was attended by Ms. Read founder and Yong’s mother, Helen Read, and various fashionable influencers including model and entrepreneur Issy Yong and former TV personality Ili Sulaiman. Kicking off with a short Q&A session, the event highlight included a fun fashion show with models showcasing various items in the collection, with a short demonstration on how to style up different pieces.
The launch concluded with two DIY sessions, the first an earring-making workshop using excess fabric from Frankitas, as well as a tote bag decorating workshop conducted in the breezy garden courtyard of Bungalow18 by Frankitas.
“I’m incredibly proud that this collaboration reflects Ms. Read’s core values,” adds Yong. “We’ve always been a business of inclusivity, celebrating women of all shapes and sizes, and this milestone allows us to continue championing that message in a new and special way.
“Partnering with Frankitas, a brand that shares our passion for celebrating cultural heritage, has been such a rewarding experience. Every detail, from the IKAT-inspired prints to the carefully chosen fabrics, embodies thoughtfulness and collaboration.”
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Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
