How involved were you in the design of the boutique's decor and interior?

"Very much so, and I enjoyed every bit of it. Back when I was studying in Paris, I would always make time to visit interior design fairs and exhibitions because I enjoy looking at the furniture, wallpaper patterns and other design elements. I like to add items and touches that are relatable to me, instead of just any expensive painting or a piece of China that has no relevance to me. 

Take for example the Mickey Mouse figurines on the top shelf in the boutique, there are 5 of them because it represents my children."

ICYMI: A Stitch In Time With Dato' Sri Bernard Chandran & Tanestrran Lournard Chandran. 

Your designs tend to feature a lot of pop prints and extravagant patterns, is it more difficult to experiment with this look in men's fashion compared to womenswear?

"Not at all, because I look at this as an amazing marriage between my creations for both men and women. During the design process, I would look at examples like the traditional Indian Maharaja's clothes with its ornate jewels and such, then show it to my team. My reasoning is that if they can create such magnificence in the past, why can't we attempt to replicate it now? I believe with the right touch, even a straight cut fabric can be made into a circular piece."

Why do you incorporate a lot of Malaysian-inspired patterns in your designs, like the silhouette of former Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman in a design from your Petang Raya 2019 collection?

"I think that the more I travel and see the world, it reminds me that I have everything I need back here. I grew up in such a diverse family and neighbourhood and we're always taking care of each other, I think it's beautiful to acknowledge that, so I wanted to have our pop culture, our national fruits and even the symbol of our Ringgit currency as part of my designs because I think it's amazing and also a homage!"

Who or what would you say is your muse when it comes to designing menswear?

"Can I say myself? (Laughs) I'm not saying this because I like myself! A lot of people think that I put in a lot of hours when I put a look together, but I just wear what I want. And this is the same when it comes to creating looks for my clients. Before they come to me to design their suits or outfits, they would roughly know what they want. I just make their designs a little less stiff so it's not too 'safe' and yet still looks effortless."

What do you hope your clients would get from their experience at Figure by Bernard Chandran?

"I think those who love and appreciate fashion would find something they like when they come to the boutique, see the outfits and try them on instead of just going online. There are a lot of options and various textiles and accessories in-store such as organza bow-ties and seasonal tuxes. Sometimes there's an emotion that you get when trying out clothes and it's better to go for fittings and even restyle some of the designs because everyone's body shape and preference are different."

Read also: Why These Diwali Traditions By Dato' Sri Bernard Chandran & Family Will Never Go Out Of Style.