A truly beneficial asset to enhance one’s dressing is a scarf. This timeless accessory is a must-have, even in a hot and humid country like Malaysia. Someone once advised, “Never leave home without a scarf.” Read on and find out why.
Carlson is a Sarawakian artisan brand based in Kuala Lumpur that also specialises in satin silk scarves.
Its designer is Hafiz Carson, who was also awarded ‘Sarawak Emerging Talent’ in Alta Moda Sarawak (AMS) 2019.
This interview took place at Metrojaya in Midvalley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur, where his products are also being promoted.
Being in the fashion industry for more than five years, this former Malaysia Airlines flight attendant shared his passion which has led him to switch his career path.
Although faced with tough challenges that many fashion designers often have to bear, and especially during the pandemic lockdown, he is still determined to pursue his passion.
Carson was born and raised in Kuching. Being a graphic design graduate, he dabbled in interior design but eventually became an air steward.
“Being a flight attendant is a wonderful career. You get to see the world and to expand our knowledge about people in different countries and their cultures. I was fortunate to be able to work in the airline industry and I am thankful for the opportunity given,” he said, adding that he still thinks fondly of London as he used to fly there almost weekly at one stage.
He was captivated by the fashion in every place he visited.
“I love fashion and somehow learning from each destination deepens my understanding that fashion is made by people living in different cultures and different locations. It is necessary to know what surrounds us in terms of the way we live. Our fashion is influenced by our society and culture which also influence our lifestyle,” said Carson.
After some years of flying, he knew he had to move on and get back on the ground to build his dream.
While on a part time job, Carson enrolled in a fashion academy. There he learned how to design, as well as practised hand-drawing and Photoshop. He graduated with a major in print design and is experienced in designing scarf, shawl and apparel.
Although he has designed apparels and still customised wears, his retail-to-wear line currently only composes scarves.
A scarf is a piece of material worn around the neck, head or draped over the shoulders for warmth, protection from the sun, cleanliness, fashion, religious reasons or as an accessory for corporation or even clubs. It can be made from different types of materials — from synthetic to natural fibres or a mix of fibres.
Worn since ancient times as early as the ninth Century, BC in Rome, it was often used to wipe sweat rather than for warmth.
Historians believed that it was used in ancient China to identify the ranks of officers or warriors. In later years, scarf wearing was applied to identify different academic institutions, sports clubs or to differentiate ranking amongst soldiers.
Nowadays, a scarf is also used to wrap gifts instead of paper in a stylish manner. No wastage indeed!
A scarf also can save your skin from too much sun exposure. While relaxing on the beach, you may want to use it to wrap your hips and thighs for style or to reduce sun exposure.
It also can keep your body warm. It will provide comfort during unpredictable weather conditions — when it is cold or windy during the rain. It also can be very useful when you are at a cinema with several air-conditioning units as you may feel very uncomfortable and cold the longer you are there. A scarf is reliable as it is less bulky for you to tuck in your bag.
Someone once pointed out that it is great for privacy. If you have a fear of being seen or caught out with someone whom you do not want others to see, you can shield your face with it. The scarf becomes a superhero in such situations. Even some think that counts as a benefit of a scarf!
Carson’s scarves come in various designs and colours. There are batik motifs as well as modern floral designs. If you plan to wear a plain-coloured outfit, a floral pattern will suit and enhance the look.
A scarf is a fashion accessory. The growing textile industry along with the shifting preferences towards fashionable clothes is driving its market development.
Besides scarves, CARLSON KL products and services include customised fashion wears, bags and shoes, headbands, hijab series and bridal services.
For more information, can contact Hafiz Carson at hafizcarson@gmail.com or carlsonkualalumpur@gmail.com
