BLENDING Japanese-inspired minimalism with Malaysian creativity, fashion brand Colegacy is redefining ready-to-wear style for a new generation. CEO Vincent Wong shares how the brand balances quality, culture, and quiet confidence to win over Gen Z and millennial consumers.
Unique blend of culture, quality, design
We took a closer look at a ready-to-wear (RTW) brand from a Malaysian company and spoke with its young CEO at one of the brand’s flagship stores in Puchong’s IOI Mall. Colegacy stands out for its clean aesthetics and contemporary design, resonating with millennials and Gen Z consumers aged 21 to 35 who prioritise comfort, quality, and affordability.
Colegacy focuses on casual RTW fashion – also known as off-the-rack or off-the-peg – offering garments in standard sizes, sold in their finished form. Unlike haute couture, which is tailored to individual measurements, RTW fashion is based on standardised patterns and produced more efficiently, resulting in lower prices. Staying true to this approach, Colegacy offers affordable pieces in a muted, versatile colour palette that is easy to mix and match. The brand also carries clothing for children and a selection of accessories.
CEO Vincent Wong, who studied in the UK, is both approachable and well-versed in fashion, answering questions effortlessly during our visit. He emphasised that all Colegacy stores are company-owned, not franchised, and proudly stated that Colegacy is now the second-largest Japanese-inspired fashion brand in Malaysia.
In Sarawak, Colegacy is available at AEON Mall and Plaza Merdeka in Kuching, as well as at Miri PICM and Miri Megamall.
The Interview
Who develops the fashion?
Vincent: All our designs are proudly created by a young, passionate team of Malaysian designers who deeply admire Japanese culture and art. Each piece reflects their creativity, attention to detail, and appreciation for minimalist aesthetics. The brand was founded by someone genuinely enamoured with Japanese culture -someone who finds joy in blending its elegance and philosophy with the local fashion scene. That passion lives on in everything we create, from design to the retail experience.
What has been your biggest challenge since entering this business?
Vincent: Our biggest challenge lies in continuously delivering greater value to our customers – not only in terms of pricing, but also through design, craftsmanship, and the overall experience. At the same time, we strive to maintain consistent product quality while keeping our designs aligned with evolving fashion trends.
What sets your fashion apart from others?
Vincent: What differentiates Colegacy is our commitment to thoughtful design and consistent quality. While many competitors chase trends and mass appeal, we invest heavily in R&D to refine our fabrics, fit, and functionality. Every piece is designed not only to look good but to feel good over time. We blend Japanese-inspired minimalism with local relevance, creating a brand that is calm, curated, and built to last. It’s not about being the loudest – it’s about earning trust through substance.
What inspired you to choose this business path?
Vincent: I’ve always admired fashion brands with a strong identity and clear purpose – those that start small but grow through vision and consistency. Brands like Jacquemus, known for its poetic simplicity and Southern French charm; Loewe, which blends Spanish heritage with modern craftsmanship; and Uniqlo, a master of everyday essentials rooted in Japanese philosophy, have truly inspired me.
I’ve always loved minimalist fashion and Japanese culture, and the idea of merging these into a unified brand DNA excited me. Watching Colegacy grow from a small startup into something meaningful has been incredibly fulfilling. That experience has had a huge impact on me. It made me believe that with focus and heart, we can build something great too.
Who is your target market?
Vincent: Colegacy primarily targets Gen Z and millennial consumers – style-conscious individuals who value authenticity, quality, and purpose in the brands they support. They’re drawn to minimalist aesthetics, cultural storytelling, and fashion that feels both personal and elevated.
Our community values thoughtful design over fleeting trends. They seek versatile, well-crafted pieces that reflect their identity without being loud. Colegacy appeals to those who embrace quiet confidence and a modern, refined lifestyle.
Are you on track with your expansion goals?
Vincent: Yes, we are on track to expand to 60 outlets nationwide within the next five years, strengthening our presence across Malaysia and bringing Colegacy to more communities.
Looking ahead, our vision is to bring Colegacy to the international stage – when the timing and partnerships are right – and to share our unique blend of culture, quality, and design with the world.
