A Midnight AFFAIR

Following the release of their latest autumn/winter 2023 Aftermath collection, co-founders David Han and Cyii Cheng of Malaysian label Ghostboy speak about their creative process, design ethos and how youth party culture influences their work.

- BRYAN HO

In the post-pandemic era that sees a return to maximalist fashion, Y2K nostalgia has been the fashion lover's goto genre. Think micro tops in vibrant hues, intentional distressing or cutouts and unconventional layering. This style trend has amassed a huge following to date, fuelled by a love for indie brands and quality vintage finds.

Introducing Ghostboy, a Kuala Lumpur-based brand that celebrates youth culture and individuality through its subversive and provocative garments. Helmed by 26-year-old designer David Han and 25-year-old model and creative Cyii Cheng, the brand is quickly rising in popularity.

Shares Cheng of the motivation behind starting Ghostboy: "It started as a personal DIY project; we were simply making clothes that we wanted to wear. To our surprise, people liked what we were making and wanted to purchase pieces for themselves. Eventually, we decided to turn it into an actual business."

A quick glance at the brand's autumn/winter 2023 collection titled Aftermath shows a dark, grunge aesthetic that is present in many Y2K styles. Frayed denim, stringy beachwear and knitted separates in muted shades of teal, cream and grey are constructed in fitting silhouettes, unmistakably exuding a rebellious attitude.