Malaysian fashion design Jonathan Liang graduated from Beaux-Arts and then studied at the Raffles Institute of Fashion in Malaysia. His name may carry little weight in the United States, but he is making his mark in Paris and is a growing presence in the Asian fashion world. He partnered with Tengku Syahmi, Tengku Chanela Jamidah, and Anita Hawkins to start the ‘Ultra’ project, which first showed during Paris fashion week for F/W 2010.
How would you describe your particular design aesthetic?
Modern chic and romantic fused into one, celebrating the form of a woman. And of course heightening the creativity of the wearer to style and create different looks with the pieces, as the collection is all about versatility. I like women who don’t take fashion too seriously and look good lazy.
Who do you look to as a role model in the industry now?
I’ll have to say Alexander Wang, he’s awesome. That’s reason enough.
What is your favorite trend of the past season?
I think the prints are getting pretty intense and crazy. I always hated wearing prints but now I find myself a victim. It’s sad but I’m enjoying it.
How did your collab with Ultra come about?
My friend was trying to hit on one of the Ultra woman, and suddenly we’re all a team for more than a year now.
What song/songs would be on the soundtrack to your life?
I’m just going to be very honest. Mariah Carey’s “I still Believe.”
Are you selling anywhere in America?
Not yet, hoping for the best. Any American buyers reading this?
How is the American girl different from the European girl?
I have no idea, they’re pretty much the same to me. More profanity filters used in America maybe?
As a Malaysian fashion designer, what kind of inspiration do you draw from your home country?
I don’t draw my inspirations from a specific place, I’m usually inspired by things happening around the world. I always keep my view in a wider perspective.
What do you think is the future of Malaysian fashion?
Slowly but surely growing.
Many designers are exhausted because of the increasingly busy fashion calendar. How do you balance your work/personal life?
I don’t think mine is balanced, I have not had a decent vacation for 3 years now. I guess my personal life has now become a part of my work life.
Who would you like to dress for the red carpet?
Tilda Swinton and Emma Stone.
Kuala Lumpur or Paris?
Paris.
