LaiChan
OVERVIEW
Lai Chan is known as Singapore’s cheongsam maestro, with a signature style that is delicately understated and rich in fine detailing.
lAICHAN Garments
LAICHAN
Goh Lai Chan
Singapore, 2017
Cheongsam
‍WANDERLUXE Collection
Silk tulle, lace, beads
Collection of ACM
Since 1991, he has been known for combining fabrics from around the world, ranging from Italian silk crêpes and delicate French laces to ethereal Japanese silk. His boutique in Paragon along Orchard Road is a treasure trove of his meditations on the cheongsam. 

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Glossary
Tulle
A lightweight netted textile of nylon, rayon or silk. It is regularly used as a base for embroidery or veils.
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The collection reimagined the "Singapore dress” through contemporary twists on traditional fashions like the cheongsam.
In this piece, there is a masterful contrast of structured tailoring with textural embellishment. The silhouette is a direct reflection of the traditional cheongsam, but with a contemporary twist in the choice of sheer lightweight fabric. The dress is fully embroidered with lace florals, tulle ribbon appliqué, and beading.
This look made its debut at Singapore Fashion Week 2017, in which LAICHAN was the local headline show.
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Glossary
Chinese Buttons
A technique of knotting a
cord onto itself to create ornamental fastenings,
often used on necklines
of cheongsams.
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Glossary
Appliqué
A decorative technique achieved by sewing a patch on a foundation fabric. Opaque fabrics can be appliquéd on sheer fabrics
to create all over patterns.
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One of the techniques that he uses is the bias cut. He then puts the pieces together, such as tulle, lace, beads, and other details, before calculating the weight of the garments. This step is pivotal in his design process to see how beautiful the garment will look and feel when worn and not just hanging on the rack.
PROCESS
Lai Chan starts his design process by taking inspiration from contemporary lifestyle pieces and translating them into the fabric, proportions, and details of his signature cheongsam.
One of the techniques that he uses is the bias cut. He then puts the pieces together, such as tulle, lace, beads, and other details, before calculating the weight of the garments.
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Glossary
Bias Cut
A technique of cutting fabric on a diagonal grain. Cutting on the bias allows for more ease on a fitted garment, resulting in an elegant drape over the body. This cutting technique also requires the use of more fabric, making it a common choice for luxurious fitted dresses.
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