Jakarta Fashion Force Designers at COTERIE 2024

Jakarta: The Beating Heart of Southeast Asian Fashion

Jakarta serves not only as Indonesia's economic and business hub but also as the epicentre of Southeast Asian fashion. This vibrant city uniquely merges modernity with rich tradition, transforming fashion into a dynamic art form that seamlessly connects past and present.
 

Jakarta's Installation at Coterie New York

At Coterie New York, the largest fashion trade show in the United States, "Jakarta Fashion Force" presents eight Indonesian fashion brands and nine accessory brands. This installation not only highlights Indonesian fashion's distinctiveness on an international stage but also underscores Jakarta's role as a burgeoning global fashion powerhouse.

This participation aims not only to spotlight local brands but also to open new opportunities in the global market. The showcased fashion brands include ANW, Jan Sober, MORAL, Sapto Djojokartiko, Sejauh Mata Memandang, Sebastian Red, Sukkhacitta, and TOTON, while accessories are represented by Aidan & Ice, BYO, Christin Wu, EPA Jewel, Fuguku, ISSHU, MAHIJA, Tigah and Tulola.
 

Modernity to Preserve Tradition

Jakarta is blending creative energy and innovation to become a new global fashion hub. "Indonesian fashion creations are progressive and authentic. They not only follow global trends but also express a distinctive cultural identity," says Svida Alisjahbana, CEO of Jakarta Fashion Week (JFW).

Renowned designers such as Sebastian Gunawan and Rinaldy Yunardi have elevated Indonesian fashion on the global stage, with their pieces gracing Hollywood stars. Their work showcases artisanal skills passed down through generations.

Brands like Tulola and Mahija demonstrate how traditional art remains relevant. Tulola collaborates with artisans from Celuk Village in Bali to create jewellery that blends classic design with modern ethnic touches. Meanwhile, Mahija from Yogyakarta features textured, poetic jewellery crafted by gold and silver artisans from Kotagede, offering a fresh take on traditional craftsmanship.

Designer Toton Januar’s label, TOTON, merges traditional kebaya with contemporary elements, introducing the kebaya vest—a versatile, fresh twist on traditional attire. Sapto Djojokartiko highlights the enduring artistry of embroidery with timeless romantic designs.

Indonesia combines craftsmanship with ultra-modern trends. Brands like BYO use laser-cut technology for futuristic bags, ISSHU maintains traditional beading techniques for accessories, and MORAL collaborates with Garut leather artisans, who have been perfecting their craft for centuries, creating globally relevant products that retain their authenticity.

"Every creation from Indonesian labels embodies a deep soul and meaning, rooted in motifs and techniques passed through generations," says Andandika Surasetja, Creative Director of Jakarta Fashion Week (JFW). "The balance between quality and quantity makes Indonesian products unique, even when produced in large volumes."

Jakarta’s blend of tradition and modernity is a testament to Indonesia’s significant potential to become a global trendsetter. Through creativity and innovation, Indonesian fashion designers are not only producing aesthetically striking pieces but also infusing them with profound cultural values.