London-based Self-Portrait has become one of the biggest international cult fashion labels in just seven years, earning kudos from the likes of Kate Middleton, Zendaya and even Blackpink's Jisoo
For Chong, who grew up in his father’s bak kwa store in Sungai Ara, Penang, the only connection he had with fashion were moments when his mother and aunts would dress up for weddings or the few special occasions held in the small, sleepy town. At the time, London seemed like a faraway dream woven by his tutor, whom Chong met while studying art and design in Kuala Lumpur.
“When I first arrived at Central Saint Martins, I could scarcely believe it, I was just so shocked,” recalls Han Chong. “Here I was, standing before this famous institution with its rich history of amazing creatives! It was definitely a ‘pinch me’ moment.”
Despite the initial culture shock, the simple pleasure of wearing one’s best was a memory that stuck with him, and soon became the core purpose of Self- Portrait’s highly sought-after pieces. Known for feminine, sartorial style and comparatively more affordable price points (starting from £300), the label’s focus was to create accessible high-fashion without making it elitist. The designer sought to empower the wearer with comfort as well as style as she goes about her day.
Whenever I design collections, I always think of the everyday woman