It all began with an unexpected email—one that would change the course of Andrea Wong's career in fashion.
The email came from none other than Nina Jacobson, the main producer of the hit movie Crazy Rich Asians.
"I thought I was being cat-fished," Andrea recalled.
But a quick Google search confirmed Jacobson’s credentials and after a few calls, she found herself diving headfirst into the whirlwind production of Crazy Rich Asians
For Andrea, it was more than just an opportunity—it was a chance to bring a distinctly Southeast Asian interpretation of fashion to the silver screen.
Over the course of three months in Malaysia and three weeks in Singapore, Wong collaborated closely with costume designer Mary Vogt to curate wardrobes that would capture the opulence and diversity of Southeast Asian fashion.
"My role went beyond just shopping; it was about translating visions into reality," Andrea explained.
"It was incredibly rewarding to bring a Southeast Asian interpretation of fashion to Hollywood,” she said.
An unplanned but fateful return
When Andrea returned to Malaysia after her studies in Australia, she envisioned a short-term career move before heading back overseas.
Little did she know, her role at Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia would be the spark that ignited her passion for fashion.
"I joined the editorial team of Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia without any formal fashion education," she shares.
Over five years, she climbed the ranks to become fashion editor, immersing herself in the local fashion scene and discovering a profound love for the industry.
Andrea's freelance career further allowed her to collaborate with various publications, local designers, and brands.
Her role as the editor-in-chief for Elle Malaysia and as the fashion stylist for the film Crazy Rich Asians fuelled her commitment to nurturing Malaysia's fashion community.
"These experiences have fuelled my drive to support and elevate our local fashion industry.
"The local fashion industry holds immense potential, but it needs more support from fashion enthusiasts," she said.
Andrea is a strong advocate for homegrown talent, aiming to leverage her influence to raise awareness about local designers and brands.
She highlighted the successes of names like Alia Bastamam at New York Fashion Week and Rizman Ruzaini's showcase at Dubai Fashion Week 2023 as examples of Malaysia's potential on the global stage.
"Our talent can compete internationally. Local designers have elevated their craft to rival international labels. Let’s support local!
"We need to foster a deeper appreciation for the exceptional craftsmanship our designers bring to the table," she said.
Andrea was recently a guest speaker at Sinar Daily’s She Leads 2: Dressing Right & Feeling Good, a curated women’s networking event held at Karangkraf on May 7.
She gave tips on how to appear more courageous and confident in choosing fashion and make-up, alongside make-up artist Nabilah Nordin, fondly known as Warnabilla.
She Leads 3: Elevating the Fitness of Your Mind & Body will focus on boosting mental health and fitness at the workplace. The speakers are fitness coach Kevin Zahri and clinical psychologist Yasmin Khan.
Be part of the conversation and join us this June 25 at Karangkraf. Get your tickets at sheleads.sinardaily.my.