When Chinese actress Fan Bingbing was conferred the title of Datuk in Melaka, her attire for the occasion carried a distinctly Malaysian touch.
The actress stepped out in a bespoke creation by renowned local designer Melinda Looi, who reimagined the traditional baju kurung with a contemporary flair.
Crafted in a delicate mint-green hue, the outfit was paired with a matching selendang.
The baju kurung featured an asymmetrical drape flowing over the shoulder, accented with lace that symbolised the waves of the Melaka Strait, while subtle touches of pink were woven in to celebrate Fan’s latest achievement.
According to Looi, the the ensemble stood as both a tribute to Fan’s Datukship and a statement of women’s empowerment in the creative industry.
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"The design reflects her refined elegance, blending timeless tradition with modern sophistication," she remarked.
Looi expressed her pride in creating the look, saying, “I was truly honoured to design for her.
"As a woman supporting another woman, it was inspiring, reminding me to dream bigger. She is a true role model for all girls.”
She also revealed that Fan had a hand in specific elements, such as the choice of colour.
Fan is best known internationally for her roles in X-Men: Days Of Future Past and I Am Not Madame Bovary.
When the actress visited Melaka last year, she wore several outfits by local designers.
Looi is a veteran of the Malaysian fashion scene, known for favouring traditional fabrics such as songket and batik, which she often incorporates into avant-garde creations.
