Founded by former Creative Director of Three Floor; Han Chong’s Self-Portrait since its launch in 2013, has been at the forefront of women's occasionwear. Known for its feminity and elegance the brand has perfected the modern cocktail dress for every woman. Here's everything to know about the adorned London brand Self-Portrait...
Self-Portrait Beginnings
Malaysian-born Han Chong moved to London in 2003, to study womenswear design at Central Saint Martins. Falling in love with London's vibrant energy for art and culture he adopted it as his home and after finishing his studies initially pursued a career in visual arts. He exhibited at 53rd Venice Biennale but decided he wanted people to be able to enjoy his art on a larger scale. The name Self-Portrait was born from this idea of self-reflection from the women wearing the clothing. Self-Portrait ensures elegance but also functionality, with collections including traditionally inspired lace panelling to expressive fabric compositions combining sheer and metallic textures. Chongs artistic take on occasionwear empowers and celebrates women, which is why since its launch it has maintained its popularity.
Initiatives
Away from the adored collections, Chong is very invested in supporting the next generation of creative talent. In 2018 he announced his five-year scholarship program which would give five students financial baking and mentorship. Furthermore, with the devasting impact on the creative industry in recent years, the brand launched an initiative to offer financial support to young talents through its AW20 campaign. Sustainability
Self-Portrait has been taking strides to improve it's sustainability and environmental responsibility. Reviewing their breakdown in collections they are using more responsibly sourced fibres and have introduced the GOTS certified organic cotton and GRS certified recycled polyester. For their SS21 swimwear collection, they worked with suppliers on recycled performance fibres producing a range in which all garments are made from 35% to 100% recycled polyester. Self-Portrait suppliers also prohibit any use of materials taken from endangered species and real fur. Fabrics such as leather, wool, cashmere and mohair are only sourced from producers that practise good animal husbandry. AW22
Launched through a series of images featuring Gigi Hadid, the campaign captures her throughout the day in her hometown New York.
I've always wanted to capture a day in the life of the self-portrait women so when exploring how best to present our Autumn / Winter 2022 collection, doing just that seemed like the perfect opportunity. Gigi was the perfect woman to bring this idea to life - free-spirited, hard-working, and a true ray of sunshine - she brought effortless energy to this campaign.
The collection includes new separates, tailored dresses and effortless eveningwear styles, empowering modern women through functional dressing for day and night.
The Bow Bag
Causing a lot of commotion this season, The Bow Bag in its angelic, mini box shape with statement bow is the cult favourite. Seen amongst all of the A-listers, it's taken the 'party bag' title, coming in blue, black and baby pink there's one for every occasion.
So if you are looking for unrivalled occasionwear discover the new Self-Portrait collection which has now landed at Coggles. 
