Fashion isn’t just a one-way expression of a designer’s vision, but a two-way exchange that should also empower the wearer with a sense of identity and confidence. Few understand this as deeply as Han Chong, founder and designer behind Self-Portrait. “When I design, I put myself in my customer’s shoes and think about what would work for them,” he shares. “I believe if you put on the right outfit, you can conquer the world.”
Growing up in Penang, Chong’s journey into the industry wasn’t a clear path. “I discovered fashion quite late. It was a breath of fresh air for me and I got attached to it.” He eventually pursued his passion at Central Saint Martins in London while working in various brands, and remembers how it was a challenging period—“I tried to survive in my 20s,” he recalls—before everything changed when he launched Self-Portrait 11 years ago.
From a spark of curiousity to the world’s fashion forefront, Chong has made Self-Portrait a sought-after label on runways, red carpets, and even among royals. Since his first flagship opened in 2018, Self-Portrait has expanded to various regions around the world, with 85 stores (and counting) in Asia, and is also available at major retailers such as Selfridges and Harrods as well as online platforms such as Mytheresa and Net-a-Porter.
For its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, Chong captures the spirit of the moment—one that reflects the shifting rhythms of modern life. Introducing fresh silhouettes and new bag styles, each piece is imbued with Self-Portrait’s signature bows, delicate detailing, and glittering accents. This season also welcomes the debut of Self-Portrait’s first residency collection, a collaboration with renowned Scottish designer Christopher Kane—celebrated for his avant-garde approach that challenges conventions. Merging two distinct design philosophies, the collection gives rise to daring, unexpected creations, made to empower and captivate.
What part of this collection was most meaningful for you?
The residency I did with Christopher Kane was a very inspiring project for me—to be able to work together as designers, focusing on creativity first before transaction.
Who do you envision wearing this collection?
Self-Portrait is a brand that embraces diversity in terms of style and audience, from Beyoncé to Kate Middleton as well as an everyday woman. I’m always inspired by how my customers piece things together according to their personal taste and lifestyle. Self-Portrait can be very versatile. I want to create a brand that complements the customer’s lifestyle, instead of changing them to fit mine—everyone has their own interpretation.
What was the most challenging aspect of bringing this collection to life?
We develop a lot of these fabrications in-house and it often takes longer than expected. Developing new fabrics is quite time-consuming and requires a lot of technical background. Every season, we try to introduce something new. It’s challenging, but also exciting because the end result is very rewarding. For the Christopher Kane residency, we worked entirely with chainmail and diamanté. It took longer to develop, but I’m so proud that we achieved it.
What is one essential item that every woman should have in their wardrobe?
A good knitted black dress. When you’re travelling, there’s no need to iron. It’s an easy piece that always looks good.
How would you describe your daily wardrobe?
My everyday life is quite hectic, so I tend to stick to a uniform. I wear a lot of jumpers or a good outerwear. I don’t spend too much time thinking about what I’m wearing. I want to put that effort into creating my collection.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Driven, curious, and fun.
How do you maintain a sense of calm?
I keep myself from overthinking and make fast decisions. When I need to switch off, I can do so and not think about work. I think as a designer; it’s important to be able to switch off and move on to the next thing—overthinking doesn’t do you any good and it won’t make a difference.
What food do you crave most back in Malaysia?
I love nasi kandar so, when I go back to Penang, I make sure I taste it all before I leave.
Where is your favourite place to holiday?
During the summer, I like to spend my time in Europe for the beaches. I visit different Greek islands every year or, sometimes, go to Italy. In winter, I return to Penang to see my parents, then travel from Malaysia to places such as Thailand, Taipei, or Tokyo, before coming back to Kuala Lumpur. I don’t mind the cold, but I prefer warm destinations for holidays. I don’t have to think about what to wear, and I can be out all night. During the winter, it gets dark by 3pm so I can’t do much.
What’s luxury for you?
Time is luxury for me. I spend them with my loved ones or be with friends.
What’s your favourite cocktail or drink?
Tequila is my go-to drink.
What do you like to cook?
I like cooking Asian soups. I make chicken soup and bitter melon soup really well. If I’ve been out drinking too much, bitter melon soup is so good the next day. It’s a great hangover soup.
What was the last TV series you binge watched?
I rewatched Sex and The City on the plane here and, most recently, Queen of Tears.
What is the best advice you received that changed your life?
Growing up, my dad always told me to be adaptable with things—be open-minded to explore the opportunities that come to you.
CLUB21 serves as the official partner of Self-Portrait in Malaysia and Singapore.
