Hatta Dolmat Celebrates 20 Years With MBOR Recognition at Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2026
- OHSOM DESK
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Malaysian fashion designer Hatta Dolmat has unveiled his latest collections, 'LINGER' and 'SOUL' to commemorate two decades in the fashion industry. These collections represent his most intimate creative expression moving beyond mere garments to convey deeper narratives about memory and imagination.
'LINGER', his Resort 2026 collection is a deeply autobiographical meditation on memory and the essence of home inspired by Hatta's experiences of chasing sunsets around the globe. Rather than replicating sunsets, he translates the emotions tied to those moments into wearable art, employing layered pigments and painterly textures. Central to this collection is a cactus gifted by his mother, symbolizing resilience and love.
In contrast, 'SOUL' signifies the inception of every creation showcasing Hatta's relentless artistic exploration over the last two decades. This collection includes ten unique couture pieces that capture the transformative power of imagination featuring vibrant ombré tailoring, handcrafted blue-and-gold featherwork and a sweeping yet ultra-lightweight oversized gown. The range also emphasizes dramatic details with asymmetrical gem-encrusted matte black designs with intricate details, a classic ruby red and black evening silhouette and an expansive hand-painted gown. The collection is rounded out by a hand-sculpted botanical dress inspired by the orchid, a romantic turquoise gown with a plunging low back, an expressive body-painted dress in bold yellow and green and an oversized power jacket detailed with graphic hand-painted outlines. Each garment stands as a testament to the emotional journey of couture, highlighting that true fashion originates from within.
In a remarkable showcase at the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2026 Closing Show, Hatta further solidified his place in fashion history by presenting a couture piece that transforms painting into a moving work of art earning him a third title in the Malaysia Book of Records for "Most Couture-Art Painting Pairs in a Runway Gallery." This innovative presentation featured ten original paintings alongside bespoke haute couture looks, allowing the audience to witness the seamless integration of art and fashion. Hatta's approach continues to redefine couture, emphasizing that it is not solely about what is worn, but about the emotions and stories conveyed through each creation. As he aptly stated, "This time, the painting did not stay on the wall. It walked the runway," highlighting the dynamic relationship between art, culture and the human experience. As the House of Hatta Dolmat embarks on its third decade, the narrative of fashion evolves into a tapestry of memories and emotions, inviting audiences to feel, remember and reconnect with the essence of life. Together, 'LINGER' and 'SOUL' celebrate the evolution of Hatta Dolmat not just as a couturier but as an artist dedicated to personal storytelling through fashion.
