FASHION
BIYAN WANAATMADJA
بِيان وانامتادجا
Making an impact Biyan combines craftsmanship with community.
R
omantic, classic, and sophisticated: these are all words that apply to the designs of Biyan, a label launched by Indonesian designer Biyan Wanaatmadja in 1984. His more than three decades of success in fashion reflect his ability to create clothes that are as wearable as they are desirable. “It has always been my desire to see women happy wearing my designs,” he says. “I have tried to create a personal and intimate enterprise, and perhaps that explains my surge of excitement about each design and all aspects of design… it’s all about the process”. In particular, Biyan is known for the refined quality craftsmanship of beautiful embroidery, intricate beading techniques and original silk prints, with all designs crafted and produced in the Biyan atelier in Indonesia. “We keep exploring new ways, finding new possibilities and developing new ideas every time we start with our new collection,” the designer says. “It is always important to have a good mix of a handmade or machine embroidery with beautifully crafted embellishment using tape, ribbons, beads or semi-precious stones, which is carefully curated to create a beautiful and
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special detail that determines the end results of each of our designs.” Recent inspirations include “the beauty of nature, tranquillity and the kindness of humankind”. It is not surprising that the designer is particularly struck by kindness, as he is known to be engaged in doing good for the community. Thanks to Biyan, numerous Indonesian villages have been able to save their traditional knowhow, while women have been supported through work that gives them the financial means to raise their families. As well as being a phenomenal success in Indonesia, Biyan has an appreciative clientele around the world, including Qatar, where the label can be found among the curated selection of designers at the Maria Luisa corner at Fifty One East. The designer views his local popularity as based on the people of Qatar having “a refined and immaculate taste” and their ability “to appreciate the finest things in life”. * Biyan is available at the Maria Luisa corner at Fifty One East, Lagoona Mall