[PHOTOS] Local Artist Reimagines What Cruella Would Look Like In M'sian-Inspired Outfits
Each design draws inspiration from a different Malaysian fashion element, such as songket, cheongsam, saree, and more.
By Gowri Chitra — 03 Sep 2021, 03:56 PM
In Cruella, Disney's latest live-action feature film, one of the things that stands out the most is definitely the fashion!
Whether it's the iconic Cruella herself or the chic Baroness, both are all decked out from head to toe throughout the movie, flaunting stunning, unique looks that are a feast for the eyes.
From traditional batik to modern patterns, Malaysia is home to some pretty gorgeous fashion too. So, what would it be like if Cruella were to dress in Malaysian-inspired outfits?
That's exactly what local artist Fikri Afif wondered, and lucky for us, he chose to bring his imagination to life by creating beautiful fashion illustrations for both Cruella and the Baroness that feature cool Malaysian twists!
"When I received the offer to collaborate with Disney+ Hotstar for its long-awaited live action feature film about one of cinemas most notorious – and notoriously fashionable – villains, — Cruella, it's a quick YES from me. IMO, it's the best fashion film of 2021," said Fikri in the caption of his Instagram post.
In total, he designed six looks, three each for Cruella and the Baroness respectively. Each one draws inspiration from a different Malaysian fashion element, such as songket, cheongsam, saree, and more.
For an extra special touch, he even applied some makeup from The Disney Cruella Collection By M·A·C. on his illustrations, hehe!
Cruella Look 1 — Inspired by her look during her fashion show debut, this design aims to be Muslim-friendly while still keeping the signature Dalmatian print
Cruella Look 2 — The traditional cheongsam was given a Cruella makeover with a high neckline and sculpted corset
Cruella Look 3 — Taking inspiration from Sarawakian Orang Ulu cultural costume, the traditional pattern was applied on an edgy cut with a huge bow and headpiece
Baroness Look 1 — Fit for a ball, the Baroness is dressed in black and white from head to toe. The long chiffon draping down adds softness to this modern-inspired tunic look.
Baroness Look 2 — To match her persona, this Muslim-friendly look is using the luxurious fabric 'Tenun Pahang Diraja' & 'Songket Bunga Tabur'
Baroness Look 3 — The softness of traditional saree draping is sculpted in a more architectural style with intricate gold details
You can read more about Fikri's inspirations behind his Malaysian looks for Cruella and the Baroness, as well as check out his other fashion artwork, on his Instagram
Cruella debuts on Disney+ Hotstar today, 3 September, so don't forget to watch it!
Set in 1970s London amidst the punk rock revolution, the movie chronicles the rebellious early days of the legendary Cruella de Vil. Follow a young grifter named Estella, a clever and creative girl determined to make a name for herself with her designs.
She befriends a pair of young thieves who appreciate her appetite for mischief, and together, they are able to build a life for themselves on the London streets. One day, Estella's flair for fashion catches the eye of the Baroness von Hellman, a fashion legend who is devastatingly chic and terrifyingly haute.
But, their relationship sets in motion a course of events and revelations that will cause Estella to embrace her wicked side and become the raucous, fashionable, and revenge-bent Cruella.
