Fashion moves too fast. As each season arrives like clockwork, designers release new collections, moving in rhythm to a rehearsed beat. The runways showcase a polished performance, but it feels strangely lifeless. For Paul & Shark, a brand born from the wild spirit of the sea, it decided to bring its guests back to the source that first inspired its conception. This was an invitation to introduce guests to a brand that doesn’t merely design clothes, but one that designs moments.
“In recent years, Paul & Shark has carried out a number of beautiful takeover projects across some of the most iconic destinations in Italy and Europe, from Cortina to Sardinia and Formentera,” said Andrea Dini, CEO of Paul & Shark. “We believe that taking over a location that truly resonates with our brand identity is one of the most effective ways to bring our philosophy directly into the places we visit, allowing us to connect meaningfully with local consumers.”
In collaboration with Pangkor Laut Resort, Paul & Shark launched its first takeover project outside of Europe. During this three-day seaside retreat, guests left behind the city chaos, arriving at a resort decked out in the colours of the brand. The famous hornbills of Pangkor island were the first to offer their welcome, wandering the grounds and watching with calm curiosity. In each villa, guests were presented with a wardrobe of resortwear personally curated by Paul & Shark, along with accessories to accompany the journey.
The first day unfolded with a friendly game of pickleball on a custom court and paddles reimagined in Paul & Shark’s designs. Meanwhile, on the beach in Emerald Bay, guests could spend the evening relaxing on branded hammocks with towels and cushions in the brand’s signature blue, marked by subtle shark motifs. As night fell, dinner was served in the style of a pasar malam. Under a canopy of fairy lights, stalls lined the open courtyard, celebrating the aromas and flavours of Ipoh’s culinary heritage.
The following morning began with a continental breakfast, before guests set out on a guided jungle trek through the two-million-year-old rainforest that surrounds the resort. Along the way, there were sightings of the island’s quiet residents, such as giant fruit bats and the Wagler’s pit viper. At the end of the trail, the path gave way to a clearing where guests took part in a tree-planting ceremony, a silent offering to the land that has sheltered such life and splendour.
After a quick refreshment, the journey continued with a marine mammal rescue workshop, where guests were given lessons on aiding stranded dolphins and learnt about the miraculous work of turtle conservation. At Chapman’s Bar, an indulgent banana leaf lunch awaited, allowing all who participated a moment to recharge and toast to fulfilling the morning’s triumphs.
A Paul & Shark retreat wouldn’t be complete without a firsthand experience of the maison’s creations. Within the pop-up boutique, guests discovered specially curated designs that reflected the spirit of the island, catering to Malaysia’s hot and humid climate. In an effort to preserve the beauty of nature, Paul & Shark is also committed to innovative and sustainable practices, using organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and regenerated wool and cashmere.
Before dusk fell, guests experienced the weekend’s crowning moment—a memorable cruise by Princess Yachts, similarly adorned in Paul & Shark’s aesthetic. Music filled the air, canapés were served, and cocktails bore the emblem of the maison as they sailed along the island’s bays and watched the sun set into the horizon.
Back at the resort, guests enjoyed a captivating barbecue dinner beneath the stars, courtesy of chef Mohan Deligannu, group executive chef of YTL Hotels and a Masterchef celebrity from the United Kingdom. It only felt right to close the glamorous la dolce vita affair with a DJ set, fire shows, and guests dancing long into the night.
Morning came all too soon on the final day, signalling the end of the retreat—but not before one last glimpse of sea otters bidding a gentle farewell from the island.
“I had the chance to visit Pangkor Laut Resort several times, and I was truly captivated by its beauty,” Dini shared. “The deep connection with nature and the spirit of authentic discovery that the island evokes are perfectly aligned with the philosophy we aim to express through Paul & Shark’s projects. That’s why I immediately felt it was the ideal location, and I strongly believe it will be the first of a long series.”
Paul & Shark | Pangkor Laut Resort
Photography by Saufi Nadzri
