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SYDNEY, May 4, 2004/ FW/ --- Group show KL6 from Malaysia is one of the many Asian delicacies due to show here this week along with shows from neighboring Singapore, Hong Kong and closer to home, New Zealand.

The wonderful aspect that I look forward to in seeing new Asian designers is their ability to incorporate the divine and historically testing aspects of their rich culture and mix it with the modern day urban needs and love they have for the clothing industry.

KL6 did just this, these five (they were due to be six...obviously, well are six technically if you count Ling N who is a prominent show designer) both up and coming and established names proudly incorporated their Malaysian heritage and everyday knowledge of fashion and today’s market desires.

Tas, designed by Tom Abang Saufi used Batik print in bright colors, mother of pearl accessories and showed lovely tailored satin trousers.

Villiam Ooi for My Closet's sense of humor was a nice surprise as she beaded and printed monsters onto asymmetrical looks slightly suggesting a secret love for punk and everything 80's from net to wristbands. Daniel Cho for Kwan is currently one of the top three leading menswear designers in Malaysia, inspired by the five fundamental elements of the universe; metal, wood, water, fire and earth.

He mixes tradition with the modern, fabric fusing the likes of denim and silk, presenting a highly functional collection focusing on volume and masculine exotic charm.

Mini mirrors and sequins are solid staples to Khoon Hooi’s 1970’s inspired modern hippy girl. She is flowing and light, yet feisty, after all his girls do listen to rock and roll.

Wind children flow free in the breeze, walk bare feet and are adorned with traditional beading, jewellery and warrior style breastplates for Melinda Looi.

She curves and contours the female silhouette making lines soft and eliminating harsh cuts.

Diary of Mercedes Australian Fashion Week Day 2 Morning:
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Designer Daniel Cho for Kwan on the runway

Designer Khoon Hooi on the runway

Designer Melinda Looi on the runway