We may be observing tighter safety restrictions as we usher in the Lunar New Year this year, but all is not lost. You can still create lovely memories by looking festive for family photos at home and during video calls with your loved ones. From the classic cheongsam to matching family sets, here are makchic’s picks for the Year of the Ox.
For the Mamas
INNAI RED
Influenced by the beauty and energy of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, ​INNAI RED​ presents a nostalgic yet fresh approach in its collection. The use of chinoiserie motifs and rich, ornate fabrics together with ruffles, lace, brocade, and chiffon brings together a romantic look that is sure to captivate.
WYNKA
The ideal balance between elegance and boldness, ​WYNKA ​delivers charming pieces with sexy peekaboo lace and eye-catching prints as well as embroidered and sequined ensembles. Pearl or jade accessories will elevate the look; especially when it’s time for that picture-perfect moment.
Doublewoot
Coined the ‘Enigmatic Orient’ collection, ​Doublewoot​ introduces textured chiffon and crochet lace rompers and qipaos. Their dresses come in feminine silhouettes and modest hemlines in pastel hues. The plus point for this local brand? You can look fabulous without breaking your bank.
Khoon Hooi
Contemporary opulence shines through in ​Khoon Hooi’s Qipao 2021 ​collection thanks to the application of luxe fabrics, fasteners, and detailing like floral brocade and modern plaid print teamed with scallop or gold piping and frog buttons. Details like side slits and lace-overlays give the qipao an extra hint of sexiness, oh la la!
Melinda Looi
Melinda Looi​ is never dull and always eclectic, yet glam. Titled ‘Pengyou’ (meaning ‘friend’ in Hokkien), the Cruise and Lunar collection are inspired by the joy of celebrating friendships and people. Quirky cheongsams, printed t-shirts, and vivid coloured two-pieces are currently all made-to-measure.
Duchess & Co
Choose from the quintessential cheongsam to ones with a modern twist like a chic high collared sleeveless cheongsam or caped flutter sleeved cheongsam for a change. Options like a two-piece ruffled peplum top and asymmetrically tiered skirt with floral prints are also available for that sweet ethereal look from Duchess & Co.
Celest Thoi
‘Flora-Scence’ by Celest Thoi brings to the table some lively, cheerful, and dainty pieces inspired by the gorgeous and lush blooms at ​Keukenhof​, the largest spring garden in the world. As each garment is made-to-measure, you can be sure it will fit like a glove and accentuate the curves and body proportions well—definitely a steal of a collection for fans of sweet A-line cuts or peplum styles.
LuxMerrier
Maxi cheongsams make one look demure and sophisticated without trying too hard. Be a stunner (even in the comforts of your own home) and rock that OOTD. The pieces from LuxMerrier​ are timeless enough to be worn again for other occasions so fret not; buy that full lace or chiffon layered one or regret later!
Florette The Label
Versatile and stylish midi wrap dresses and flowy tops made from iron-free, washable material screams perfection for the mama on-the-go. Choose from an array of dark colours like indigo and forest green to girlie and soft shades like champagne and salmon. Even more great news: most styles from Florette The Label​ are nursing-friendly!
Roa Skye
How about a nice tailored gingham cheongsam? Or one with a pop of colour and puffed sleeves? ​Roa Skye ​designer, Najah Mohammed, explores contemporary cuts like peplum and prints like gingham, in striking colours like fuschia, aquamarine, and canary yellow. The designs include matching face masks too.
Kanoewear
Created not only to wear during Chinese New Year, ​Kanoewear​ presents an array of batik printed samfus, qipaos, kimono wrap dresses, jumpsuits, and rompers to pick from. Matching accessories are also available to complete your #batikbabe look.
Pomelo
Never thought a blazer and pant combo could work for Chinese New Year? Think again! You can also up your style ante by choosing a mandarin collared feather-trimmed blouse paired with gold embroidered cigarette pants. Alternatively, keep things casual yet pulled-together by wearing tangerine printed shorts with a plain button-down top for some festive ‘coolness’ by Pomelo.
Bass and Co
Have you been on the hunt for stylish qipaos in sizes XL to 3XL? Look no further, because ​Bass and Co have them! We love how the large cuts accentuate womanly curves instead of making one look frumpy. Shop from lace qipaos to your not-so-average cheongsam in colours like black or dark lilac.
Dreamscape
Inspired by old school glam and a bit of drama, ​Dreamscape​ presents fitted soft satin qipaos with side slits as part of its ‘Empress’ collection. If revealing side slits aren’t your cup of tea, pick one with an oversized silhouette and quarter sleeves that will give a lovely flounce when you walk.
For the children
Hemito
Here’s an affordable, good quality, and fashionable local label that caters to kids from newborns to ‘Mummy and me’ sets. To welcome the Year of the Ox, ​Hemito​ has launched charming cheongsams and dresses for girls and smart button shirts and hanfu sets for boys.
Kapas Kids
Founded and made in Malaysia, ​Kapas Kids​ offers premium quality hand-printed batik cotton pieces for children. Not only does the entire collection look amazing, you can bet your little ones will feel comfortable throughout the day (as they standby for snapshots and video calls!) thanks to the breathable cotton material.
For the whole family
Ginger Duck
Looking coordinated can be really fun when there is something for everyone! Ginger Duck does made-to-measure orders for the entire family but you can also shop their existing collection for your little ones and match your styles together.
Pokoks
Deck your whole family in the same fun prints this Chinese New Year thanks to ​Pokoks​. Vibrant, contemporary, youthful, and cheerful; it is not your typical coordinated look though it is lively enough to lift up your #dudukrumah spirits this festive season. Sizes for children start from one year old to 12 years old and size S to XXL for adults, men and women.
Whitesoot
Known for their matching outfits sets, ​Whitesoot​ has done it again this season. Get your hands on their signature flare dresses in a delightful print or colour. Each piece is machine-washable and made from breathable cotton material perfect for our hot and humid weather.
Emcee Couture
Create memories by getting bespoke matching sets made for you and your bub. Besides being a bridal designer, ​Emcee Couture​ also specialises in made-to-measure garments for different occasions. Look out for their popular ‘Mama and Me’ sets available for order; just drop the brand a line.
Photos are taken from the respective brand’s website and social media pages. For more details and prices, contact the online stores and boutiques.
Tag us in your CNY snaps at #makchicCNY2021, we’d love to see your outfits. Remember to stay safe and be respectful towards others during this time. Until then #kitajagakita dear #makchicmumtribe!
By Amanda SuraÂ
Amanda is a freelance writer, aspiring businesswoman, and mother of two. She’s a proud Sarawakian who hails from Kuching. Apart from writing, she loves mixing natural body scrubs and foot soaks with her business partner for their small business, Suravont.