
While it is not uncommon for fashion to imitate art (or the other way around), there are few brands that pull it off as distinctively as ANS.EIN. Art is the origin and a boundless source of inspiration for the Singapore-based label’s designs that can be transmuted into everyday clothing or “wearable art”.
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Co-founded by close friends Anseina Eliza and Erlyn Karmelia in 2017, ANS.EIN has steadily grown a reputation for its colourful brushstroke designs, and for being a go-to label for festivewear. Before the two friends came together to fulfil their longtime dream of starting a label together, Anseina was an architect and wedding dress designer, while Erlyn had a career in fashion manufacturing. Yet, even with the added benefit of complementary backgrounds, curating a distinct point of view proved to be a tricky undertaking for the duo.
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“After trying many concepts that didn’t materialise, Anseina suddenly had an idea to transform art into wearable creations so more people could enjoy art beyond galleries and museums,” recounts Erlyn. This eureka moment not only led to an endless fascination with everyday objects, but also ignited the duo’s interest in their Asian roots. “As Asians, our culture is deeply ingrained in our lives—it’s part of who we are. Peranakan patterns, for example, remind us of our ancestors and the places we visited growing up, evoking nostalgia,” shares Anseina.

From creations that harmoniously incorporate batik and kintsugi to kebaya tops adorned with oriental floral prints, ANS.EIN’s designs reveal a smorgasbord of cultural references. “Beyond personal connections, we’re incredibly proud of the richness, vibrancy, and modesty of Asian culture,” says Erlyn.
Apart from churning out culturally rich collections, one of the duo’s most fulfilling moments is winning the Singapore Fashion Council’s annual gala fashion show two years in a row—a testament to their commitment to environmental sustainability. “When we envisioned the future of the kebaya, two key concepts stood out: sustainability and inclusivity,” Anseina explains.
Without diluting the brand’s artistic essence, the duo showcased creations made from fabric scraps and single-use grocery bags, transforming these leftover materials into dream dresses that do more than look good.
IF YOU LOVE ANS.EIN, CHECK THESE OTHER LABELS OUT
Similar to the Singaporean label, these regional brands spotlight the diverse facets of Asian culture with collections that are thoughtfully conceived and meticulously crafted.
AO YES

Co-founded by Austin Wang and Yansong Liu in 2022, AO Yes is a contemporary Shanghainese fashion label that reimagines Chinese style with an innovative twist. Blending traditional and avant-garde elements, the brand has garnered acclaim for standout pieces such as qipaos embellished with fur trims and unconventional prints, alongside sharply tailored blazers featuring refined mandarin collars.
LEUX STUDIO

Based in Medan, Leux Studio has gained renown for its seasonal Chinese New Year collections. With a focus on honouring traditional silhouettes such as the qipao and hanfu, as well as offering feminine reinterpretations of the Mao suit, the brand distinguishes itself through modern prints and refined pleating. Beyond its exquisite occasionwear, the Indonesian label also features a selection of wardrobe staples that seamlessly blend style and comfort.
OEMAH ETNIK

The Jakarta-based label celebrates its Indonesian heritage through vibrant cultural designs. Committed to supporting local communities, Oemah Etnik proudly collaborates with artisans from across the archipelago. By incorporating traditional techniques such as tenun and batik, each garment showcases intricate craftsmanship, beautifully reimagined with a contemporary twist.