The story
To borrow a cliché, fashion has always been a passion for Leslie Variyan.
Established in 2005, VARIANTE is a Malaysian label reflecting style, sophistication, elegance and glamour. Creative Director Leslie Variyan believes every woman is beautiful in her own way and he uses this belief as inspiration for every design under the VARIANTE and VARIYAN labels.
Born to a mother with impeccable taste in fashion, Leslie was exposed to fashion early. His trudging along with his mother to her tailor opened his eyes to appreciate not only what a woman should wear but also how to wear it right. This introduction into the world of fashion and tailoring is what has shaped and influenced Leslie into the designer that he is today.
The VARIANTE label is a ready to wear label, created for the modern and empowered woman capturing the essence of femininity and beauty through their creations. Using a combination of classic and versatile silhouettes with a modern edge VARIANTE is first stylish, then contemporary and diverse; taking a woman from home, to work to a night on the town.
The VARIYAN label encompasses the true personality of a woman, through their high-end couture collections. Leslie’s signature of intricate designs, fabric and embellishments are used to create unique and feminine cocktail, and evening ensembles that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
To me, designing clothes comes naturally. When I hold a piece of material in my hands, and feel the softness and flow, I can already imagine the drape along the feminine body. That comes so easily to me. Working with clothes and design gives me an euphoria.
I am inspired by all women, no matter what their ethnicity or race. Every woman is beautiful in her own way and my designs capture this basic quality of all women. My designs are chic, stylish, and yet wearable; so I draw inspiration also from the challenges that the typical professional woman has to face and to give her wardrobe choices that bring out the very best of her qualities while remaining functional. A woman’s inner qualities also inspire me greatly. Women are strong, intelligent, dynamic, resilient, and capable.
