Urban Asa
Collection
29/09/2023
It’s our third year introducing the Asa 麻 Linen collection, and I’m incredibly grateful for the love it has received, alongside our Classic Collection. For those who aren’t familiar, “Asa” means “Linen” in Japanese, and this collection draws inspiration from the Japanese Minimalist movement. A fun fact: ever since I fell in love with minimalist fashion (which is also the reason I founded WES), my Pinterest feed has been filled with various Japanese-inspired fashion styles—cool, clean-cut designs that exude a laid-back vibe.
Originally, Asa was conceived as a special collection for the Raya season. As a Chinese-founded brand in Malaysia, I aimed to design pieces that celebrate the “Balik Kampung” (translated as “return to the countryside”) festive season, with a focus on modesty for our Muslimah friends. Knowing how major festive celebrations can span a good week, we may not be experts in “baju raya,” but we are experts in crafting casual fits. The goal of the Asa collection is to offer attire suitable not only for the heavier festive days but also for post-festive occasions. Linen was the first fabric that came to mind, given Malaysia’s tropical climate. Moreover, I was aware that our Muslimah friends often favor cotton linen due to its breathability and the modesty it brings to their attire. Japanese fashion, with its relatable style for a modest look, tied everything together. Thus, Asa 麻 Linen was born during one of our brainstorming sessions for a collection name.
Growing up in Kelantan, where modernization was not as prevalent, I ventured to other states for my studies and eventually settled down in Kuala Lumpur for work. Along my journey of discovering what WES could become beyond our current status, I found myself naturally drawn towards the concept of urban living. Urbanization began to reflect in my personal style choices. Although I’ve been increasingly interested in urban fashion designs lately, my heart will always have a “kampung girl” core. I appreciate modernity but also value a laid-back approach. I enjoy urban surroundings but at a more relaxed pace. When it comes to urban wear, I’m particular about selecting pieces that are both wearable and long-lasting.
Growing up in Kelantan, things aren’t modernised over there, so I moved out to study in other states and eventually settled down in Kuala Lumpur for work. Along the journey of discovering what WES could be more than what we already are, I slowly find myself leaning towards the concept of Urban, urbanising myself came naturally as to what I wear. Though I have been finding myself drawn to urban wear design lately but I will always have the heart of a “kampung girl” (translate to countryside girl). I like things modern but also laid-back. I enjoy urban surroundings but at a more relaxed pace. I like urban wear but only the ones that are wearable and long lasting.
Urban Asa represents a shift from the original “Balik Kampung” concept of the Asa 麻 Linen collection, as we embrace the essence of the urban city. The cargo trend quickly came to mind due to its modern design elements and monochrome color palette.
Let’s talk about design
Asa – Gender Neutral Cargo Jacket
First thing first, my dream jacket had to feature an internal hidden pocket. I personally believe that such details elevate a jacket’s overall design. We opted for zippers instead of buttons, recognizing the fast pace of city life—zippers save time, and we made sure the zipping experience is smooth because we understand its importance. To balance the masculinity and femininity of the design, especially challenging in Gender Neutral pieces, we added a patch in front of the zipper, concealing the metallic components and softening the overall look. We included a generously sized front pocket to compensate for the simplified cargo design. For those who prefer a higher jacket fit, an adjustable drawstring at the bottom hem is provided. Don’t miss the subtle design details at the back sleeve—three small pleats—and the shoulder joint cuts.
The jacket’s overall cut offers a relaxed fit with drop shoulders, achieving just the right amount of oversized, considering the softness of the linen fabric. We didn’t want to make it overly laid-back since it’s inspired by cargo pieces. This time, we’ve chosen a new, softer linen blend fabric for the jacket. The jacket is half-lined, adding some extra thickness to the overall design.
I adore the final look of the jacket; choosing linen fabric has effectively balanced the masculinity of the cargo elements, creating an effortlessly laid-back appearance while preserving the coolness of utility.
Asa – Gender Neutral Cargo Parachute Pants
With a Cargo-inspired jacket, completing the look required the perfect bottoms! Designing these pants was quite a task, given the multitude of details to consider. We aimed for an exceptionally relaxed fit but ensured the bottom hem could be optionally secured, hence the parachute cut. However, we didn’t want it to balloon out like traditional parachute pants, so we engaged in numerous back-and-forth discussions with our manufacturer to achieve just the right level of relaxed fit. The bottom hem features a hidden stretchable loop, providing options to wear it loosely or tighten it to hang it at your ankles.
Cargo design is all about functionality, and we added a total of five pockets, ranging from small to large. At the waist, you’ll find an adjustable drawstring and a stretchable back waist for flexible fitting, catering to the Gender Neutral cut. We opted for a resin button instead of metallic to better complement the linen material. Metallic zippers are incorporated as part of the cargo element. These parachute pants utilize the same Linen fabric from our past Asa designs (which many loved), offering more structure to maintain the parachute details’ shape.
Croissant Leather Crossbody Bag
Although our collection is primarily Linen-based, falling under Asa, we’ve introduced a long-awaited Croissant Crossbody Bag in a soft PU Leather version. We felt that the collection needed an accessory to complete the urban look. Leather is a key element in urban wear, and the croissant shape serves as the highlight. I can personally vouch for the PU leather’s incredible softness, allowing it to maintain a fluid shape. Additionally, the leather boasts a subtle texture that enhances its luxurious appearance. Let’s not forget to mention the ample storage space it offers. If you own our Nylon version of the Croissant Crossbody Bag, it’s time to add this leather version to your collection. It’s just as water-resistant and chic!
Asa – Gender Neutral Half Hidden Button Blouse
This design is no stranger as it is an existing design. However, by changing the fabric, we’ve given it an entirely new laid-back look. Reintroducing it in Black and White adds a touch of versatility and timelessness that goes a long way in urban wear.
This collection caters to both genders, and I take immense pride in being able to say that. Not many can claim to create pieces that transcend gender boundaries (giving myself a pat on the back)! When people look to The WES Studio, they can always find something suitable for all. Although we initially focused on women’s clothing, over the years, I’ve come to appreciate men’s clothing too. Perhaps in the next journal, I’ll share more of my thoughts on Gender Neutrality.
Curated By:
April Ng
Founder
