Datuk Zang Toi, who is currently in the centre of a controversy involving one of his designs, has responded by saying that he thinks it is a compliment for another designer to copy him.
Worn by singer-songwriter Alicia Keys at this week's Met Gala, Ralph Lauren was accused by social media users of copying Toi's New York City skyline cape.
"That a giant brand name company such as Ralph Lauren would copy a small town boy from Malaysia is a high form of flattery," Toi says, when contacted by StarLifestyle.
"It is proof that you are good at your craft when someone copies your work."
Toi sent out a similar design on the runway back in February 2020, during his Autumn/Winter show at New York Fashion Week, and in past years. It was a creation from his archives, first created in 2009.
Toi comments that he is just glad people noticed the copying – as well as acknowledging and putting a spotlight on the topic.
He believes copying is indeed a problem in the fashion industry, but he just wishes to take this situation as a compliment.
"There is a fine line between being inspired by another designer, and out right copying where everyone noticed it immediately," he enthuses, adding that it would not make a difference even if the brand had credited him.
On social media, the comments came fast and furious.
"Yours is much more beautiful," said one Facebook user, who recalled seeing the design back in 2009.
"At least they seem to be 'inspired' by one of the best," read another Facebook response.
Instagram users also called out Ralph Lauren when it posted up shots of Keys wearing the design. Most commented on how the brand should have at least acknowledged the situation.
Others claimed that replies to the picture were later hidden.
Toi says he felt the outpouring of love from his fans, who sent him messages of support.
"I was touched to know how many fans out there calling him out! I truly take it as a compliment to have an iconic US brand copying a boy from Kuala Krai, Malaysia."
He also shared numerous pictures of his New York City skyline design cape, both runway shots and sketches, denoting the pride he has for his work.
When asked, he teases the possibility of releasing a Zang Toi Kuala Lumpur skyline cape in the future.
"I have already done the New York skyline in 2009 and 2020 and Venice skyline in 2015," Toi comments. "The contrast between the modern Petronas Twin Towers and the majestic train station building would be stunning."
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