By: Alva Ree
The global fashion industry was recently shocked by the presence of a brand from Indonesia that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern fashion styles. This brand, called Momen, emerged as one of the innovators in the world of men’s fashion, using Indonesian cultural heritage, namely Batik, as their main inspiration. However, The thing that surprised the international world was its attractive and modern design and how each Momen product was produced in a completely manual way.
“Wow, amazing! I didn’t expect that the stylish batik motif was actually made manually by hand. I’m really excited. This is an amazing brand. Very good. Even a fashion stylists from Paris is very interested in Momen. We can use the collections for everyday use.” Said Valeriia Manziuk, an American producer and brand ambassador for the well-known Ukrainian brand, Lady Hunter Lingerie.
In the era of digital, Momen has chosen to return to its traditional roots by using a classic batik process that is entirely done by hand. This process includes several very detailed stages, such as pengkhetelan (pattern making), nyanting (applying wax), nemboki (covering undyed parts), dyeing (coloring process), ngerok (removing wax), to nglorod (boiling the fabric to remove remaining wax and displays the final pattern). Each step requires special skill and extraordinary precision, making each resulting garment unique.
“I think the motif is very stylish. I just discussed with my friend and saw the design. We want to use it for the next (NYFW) season. It’s amazing that amidst the dominance of fast fashion, there is a brand that is so committed to preserving tradition, art and culture.” Valeriia Manziuk continued.
More than just preserving culture, Momen also has a mission to break stereotypes about Batik among young Indonesians. So far, Batik is often considered as old-fashioned and only suitable for formal or traditional events. However, Momen has succeeded in changing this view by presenting Batik in modern cuts that still follow global fashion trends. The collections from Momen prove that Batik can be a fashion element that is fresh, cool and relevant to the lifestyle of today’s young people.
Apart from its fantastic design and manufacturing process, Moment is also in the world’s spotlight because of its environmentally friendly approach, affordable prices, and luxurious quality for young people. “It’s Amazing! Impossible! How can Momen produce high quality product with extraordinary affordable prices? Momen must have worked hard to create this amazing product. Very lucky to be able to get a unique and high-quality design like this.” Valeriia Manziuk said again after hearing that the price of Momen Casual Batik turned out to be more affordable than she expected.
By using natural dyes and a process that produces minimal pollution, Momen offers a more sustainable alternative to the fast fashion industry, which often damages the environment. Coupled with its affordable prices, Momen wants to make it easier for Indonesia’s young generation to feel stylish through culture.
Moment’s success in combining tradition and innovation has attracted the attention of many fashion lovers around the world. Their work even appeared at one of the world’s most prestigious fashion events, New York Fashion Week. This step is a proof for Momen that traditions can keep up with the times and transform in this modern era.
By receiving increasing international attention, Momen is at the forefront of a new wave of fashion that celebrates cultural uniqueness and authenticity. And who knows, maybe Momen will inspire more world fashion brands to reflect on their traditional roots and embrace cultural richness in their creations.
Published by: Martin De Juan
