Sketching never quite worked for Aaron Yong. Instead, he’d designed directly on the mannequin, revealing clean lines and fluid shapes that would define his signature style at Weihaoyong Studios.
Yong established the brand in 2017. In the beginning, he designed ready-to-wear garments for women. But their silhouettes were unique—appearing minimalist and genderless. As his name spread, things quickly changed for Yong as more clients sought his eye for bespoke creations.
His avant-garde tailoring and easy manner brought Yong’s eponymous brand into the spotlight, becoming a recognisable name in the local fashion industry, including three consecutive appearances at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
After being in the industry for nearly a decade, Yong is now shifting focus—menswear. I spoke to the fashion designer to learn more.
It’s been nine years since you launched Weihaoyong Studios. How has the brand changed since then?
I started out designing ready-to-wear garments mainly for women. But in Malaysia, I discovered that custom-made and bespoke designs resonated more strongly with clients, so I quickly shifted my focus in that direction. Over the years, the brand has continued to evolve, branching into bespoke eveningwear and casualwear. More recently, I’ve also begun introducing menswear into my collections to expand the brand to a wider audience.
What have you learned about yourself as a designer over the years?
I’ve learned to trust my instincts. Early on, I was always trying to please my clients, but over time I realised the importance of finding a balance between their tastes and my own creative vision. At the end of the day, I must do what feels right to me. The people who truly believe in my work will follow naturally.
What have you been up to recently?
I’ve decided to take a break from runway shows and focus on client-based projects. After three years of organising shows, I felt it was time to move towards something different and more slow-paced. Weihaoyong Studios currently has two stockists, Dia Space and Hyphaus, and I’m planning to host more intimate events and presentations through these spaces.
You’ve been incorporating more RTW and menswear into your collections. Can you tell us more?
Menswear actually began through pieces I designed for my own wardrobe. What started as personal prototypes gradually drew interest from people around me, which eventually led me to put them into production. My influences often come from personal experiences, daily routines, and the people around me. Right now, I’m looking inward and expanding the brand’s offerings while still maintaining the signature aesthetic of Weihaoyong Studios—clean-cut, fluid, functional and elegant.
As a fashion designer, what’s the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?
Budgeting. As you grow older and the business expands, more creative restraints begin to appear because not everything is financially possible. I believe it’s important to find a balance between creativity and sustainability.
What’s the best part of your job?
Seeing my work being appreciated and valued. Since the beginning of my career, I’ve been fortunate to have clients and media outlets who have continuously followed and supported my work. Knowing they enjoy wearing my pieces and seeing them return over the years brings me a lot of joy.
What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers in the local scene?
Understand yourself first. Be certain about your design language and identity before diving into business. You can’t compromise on quality, especially now that consumers are becoming far more educated and discerning. If you want to create luxury, you must understand craftsmanship and how garments are made.
Clients today are looking for experiences and emotional connections with brands. They want to feel special and part of a community. The era of relying purely on celebrity endorsements is fading. People are now more influenced by the communities and relationships around them, and that sense of belonging is what truly builds a lasting brand.
This article first appeared here
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
