ZANG TOI
International Fashion Designer

ZANG TOI is a renowned Fashion Designer who has built a tradition of elegance for over 20 years. Zang was born and raised in Kuala Krai, Kelantan, Malaysia. He landed in New York City at the age of 20 where he studied at the distinguished Parsons School of Design. Zang is one of the first Asian designers championed by the U.S Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour. 

Since then, Zang’s work has been featured in many major publications such as Vogue, Vanity Fair etc. Not only has he dressed Hollywood celebrities such as Fergie (Black Eyed Peas) and many others, he has also created luxurious wardrobe for philanthropists and royalty including Melinda Gates and Saudi Princess Haifa Bandar Al Saud.

Today, after 28 years of being in business, the designer opens his first flagship boutique at 1046 Lexington Avenue, New York City. The world continues to recognize Zang’s passion for timeless beauty as he builds on a strong tradition of elegance.

Who is Zang Toi in your own words? Zang Toi is a free thinker who leads his own creative path.

Have you ever thought of becoming a fashion designer in your younger days? No, I have always thought that I might become a fine artist, architect, or an interior designer.

If you were to choose again, what career would you choose and why? I would choose interior design, as I am obsessed and passionate about historical interior designs and recreating them in my own modern way.

What does it take to be a fashion designer? Formal Fashion design training, dedication, and hard work.

The fashion industry is among the greatly affected industries because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Were you affected and how did you manage 2020? I was affected like the rest of the fashion industry. Fortunately, with perseverance and extreme hard work, I managed to stay above the water.

Would you encourage the new generation to take up fashion design? Why? Absolutely, one must not only have the talent and passion, he or she must also be willing to put in hours of hard work to be successful in this, or any industry. It is a 24/7 job.

How do you see today’s fashion industry, including the designers and creatives, compared to the good old days? Today’s fashion industry is more about fast fashion and instant gratification. The new generation are less concerned about the quality and craftsmanship.

How do you find the Malaysian fashion industry compared to the fashion industry in the USA? I am unable to comment on this since I have been away and abroad for the last 42 years.

Many say that fashion designers make good money and fame, what are your thoughts on this? I agree, but remember what I said earlier about putting in hard work and that it is a 24/7 job?

How do you judge success? Success is in the eye of the beholder. It has never occurred to me to judge success.

Has Zang Toi achieved the goals he set when stepping into the fashion world? I think I am fortunate enough to receive attention and great press for my work while maintaining the love and support from my loyal clients.

What is the secret of being Zang Toi? The secret is being my happy self and treating people the way I want to be treated.

Is there anything else you would like to add? Be happy, be kind and be generous.