From a humble batik shop in Kuala Terengganu to a high fashion atelier, You Sheng shares his vision for Yuleza
When asked in an interview on BFM why he chose bridal wear as his main focus, You Sheng, creative director of Yuleza, quipped: “Seeing brides happy!”
An amalgamation of his and his sister’s names, Yuleza was once a small family-owned batik shop in Kuala Terengganu. Twenty-six years later, You Sheng has transformed it into one of the most sought after names for custom bridal and evening wear, propelling its reputation even further when he was also asked to design for some of the local entertainment industry's biggest names, such as Siti Nurhaliza and Ayda Jebat.
And with a background in pattern-making, the Malaysia Institute of Art graduate is known for his use of intricately detailed textiles and flattering silhouettes, making him a bride-to-be’s favourite.
See also: Meet Malaysian Fashion Designer And Doll-Maker Extraordinaire Nigel Chia
How did you first start out in fashion design?
I've always loved beautiful patterns and interesting textiles when I was younger. I taught myself how to sew miniature clothing for dolls and wine pouches; we would sell the latter to tourists in my mom's batik shop. I guess fashion design was always in my DNA.
The most memorable design you've ever created?
Anything I had done for Ayda Jebat. She’s a Malaysian actress and singer whose sense of style matches with Yuleza's. We absolutely adore her.
Who inspires you?
I have had many inspirations and it's hard to pinpoint one. But if I had to choose, it would probably be Christian Dior, one of fashion's original moguls.
