Syaiful Baharim: March 2009

SLEEK and shiny leather-like pants were once reserved for the Jim Morrison crowd or those who wanted to emulate the chic, edgy look of Mary-Kate Olsen but runway exposure and a bit of polish have made them timeless and classic.

Syaiful Baharim’s latest collection features this sassy piece which he pairs perfectly with silk blouses and even slinky dresses for that cool, street sophistication.

This is the fashion vibe that the designer is giving his loyal fans and fashion followers this season. Almost rough but still refined, the ready-to-wear range focuses on a woman’s femininity (via the soft, curvy silhouette) while subtly showing her strong character (through the detailings such as metal grommet, spikes and such).

It’s definitely a collection that’s made with the chic and confident urban woman in mind. Which is probably why he’s chosen the company’s managing director Suraya Malik as his current muse.

“She personifies most women today who are not only wives, mothers and daughters but also successful individuals in their own right,” he remarked.

Suraya, who’s new to the modelling world, presents a fresh look with her sultry beauty.

“I’m always on the lookout for different faces so that my creations grab even more attention,” said Syaiful.

Of his new line, he explained: “I want to showcase the wearer’s strong character while portraying her soft side too. Call it a juxtaposition of persona and emotion through fashion if you like.”

He adds that the collection is also about tailoring and texture where the silhouette is sleek and sharp while the look is, oh, so ravishing.

“I’ve also included separates that can take the wearer from the boardroom to the ballroom without much fuss. The embellishment is just enough to dazzle anyone during the day and sparkle brightly enough in the evening,” he explains.

The 30-piece range is a complete ready-to-wear line compared to his previous collections which were more about commercial value.

“However, while these are easy-to-wear off-the-peg clothes, the designs come with special touches, making them truly outstanding and exclusive.” No surprise why it took him three months to finish the design work alone.

Even though black is dominant in the collection, Syaiful jazzes it up with shades of sought-after stones.

Gemstones colours such as sapphire blue, deep amethyst and stunning emerald are matched with solid black, while the accents are sparkling rhinestones and rock-and-roll metal studs — a clashing combination that somehow works with Syaiful’s smart touch.

One of the key looks is a purple silk dress with a hood. At once mysterious and alluring, this sensational number requires no bling bling or other details because the femme fatale who wears this is already fabulous for sure.

Another version of it comes in emerald green and cinched by some shiny rhinestones just above the waist.

“The hood is my favourite design element because it gives a more fashionable option for tudung-clad women,” Syaiful notes.

Another cutting-edge creation by the award-winning designer is a take on the tux which comprises latex leggings, bejewelled shell top and be-ribboned blazer — all in black. This trio is complemented by a pair of black leather gloves for a dose of drama.

A ladylike black shift dress is updated with pristine white beadwork at places where a woman’s curves are most obvious. It is this kind of detailing that makes Syaiful’s clothes attractive and appealing, showing that much thought and effort are given to each of his designs.

One dramatic creation is a harem pants and diaphanous blouse combo that also comes with a hood. Belted with a thick, silver-studded waist enhancer, a black bodysuit worn inside lends sheer sensuality to the creation.

Evening wear calls for more dazzle at the right places. For example, Syaiful’s entrance-making black dress has a flirty lace-layered skirt and coloured baubles (on the shoulders) for that subtle and stylish special effect.

For those who prefer stark simplicity, you can opt for the one-shouldered dress with a long trail that cascades softly behind. With some pleats and ruching, this Grecian-inspired gown is worthy of any grand gala or a red carpet event. Suffice to say, you’d surely stand out in Syaiful.

DAZMAN MANAN

NST, March 9th 2009