When it comes to suits, it inevitably evokes images of sophistication, meticulousness, and professionalism. Men’s fashion, with its rich heritage, has ingrained these impressions deep within the collective consciousness. However, there is a brand, DICKSON LIM, defies conventional stereotypes, bringing a breath of fresh air and innovative tailoring to classic menswear.
Despite coming from a family background in tailoring, it did not ignite Dickson’s interest in the craft. Instead, he aspired to create designs that stood out from the conventional menswear. Without formal fashion education or background, he self-taught and embraced boundless creativity, overcoming self-doubt and negativities. With the belief in “Dreams Without Limits,” Dickson established his own fashion house in 2020.
With the cutting-edge designs and impeccable craftsmanship, DICKSON LIM redefines the boundaries of men’s fashion, delivering a fusion of tradition and modernity that captivates the discerning eyes of fashion connoisseurs. Dickson’s designs have garnered recognition from VOGUE and he also has become the first Malaysian-born designer to dress a celebrity at the Oscars.
This year marks the fourth anniversary of the brand’s establishment. With an unwavering passion, dedication, and determination, he continues to strive and offer sartorial creations that resonate with the modern man’s quest for uniqueness and style.
Before establishing the brand, you didn’t get your foot in the door of fashion industry. What motivated you to enter the fashion industry and create the brand initially?
DICKSON: Through the process of replicating and refining these runway designs, I honed my craftsmanship, acquiring invaluable construction skills and mastering intricate detailing techniques not readily accessible online. As I gained proficiency, I began to share my creations online, gradually cultivating a dedicated following. Four years into my journey, the culmination of dedication and innovation was recognized by Vogue, which lauded my brand as “DICKSON LIM mastering the art of SUITS.”
In essence, my foray into fashion was driven by resourcefulness, passion, and a commitment to craftsmanship. What began as a pragmatic solution to sartorial challenges evolved into a thriving brand celebrated for its mastery of the art of tailoring.
Can you share the creation concept of DICKSON LIM and what kind of message do you hope to carry out through your creations?
DICKSON: The essence of DL’s creation concept lies in envisioning a utopia through design—a world where each garment becomes a canvas for dressing muses in a narrative of boldness, confidence, and originality. With every collection, I embark on an exploration and expansion of this envisioned world. At the core of my brand’s message is the ethos of DREAM WITHOUT LIMITS, inspired by my personal journey of transcending barriers and defying odds to establish an international brand from a humble background in Sarawak. Overcoming skepticism and self-doubt, I’ve come to understand that true success often necessitates embracing risk and steadfastly pursuing one’s passion.
My aim is to empower my audience to similarly defy constraints and embrace their dreams, irrespective of external skepticism or adversity. Ultimately, my measure of success transcends commercial acclaim—it lies in the transformative impact my brand has on individuals’ lives. Whether or not they purchase my creations, their belief in themselves and their ability to shatter limiting beliefs is what truly matters. For me, the greatest honor is knowing that I’ve made a positive difference in people’s lives, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-belief that transcends mere fashion.
What reasons led you to choose tailoring suits as the focus of your brand and what does creating a suit mean to you?
DICKSON: My inclination towards tailoring menswear traces back to my familial heritage deeply rooted in the craft. Despite my family’s hopes for me to inherit their tailoring business, I realized early on that traditional tailoring, while esteemed, did not ignite my passion. The prospect of repetitively crafting the same designs felt uninspiring. Thus, I embarked on a journey to infuse freshness and innovation into the classic menswear scene, birthing the concept of DICKSON LIM. My goal is to breathe new life into menswear, captivating audiences with a distinct twist that encourages self-expression and celebrates individuality. By tapping into the innate desire to stand out, I aim to offer sartorial creations that resonate with the modern man’s quest for uniqueness and style.
If you were to summarize your brand in a single sentence, how would you define it?
DICKSON: A new perspective in Tailoring
How do you come up and decide on the themes for your collections, and where do you find the inspiration behind?
DICKSON: My journey in fashion has been unconventional, devoid of formal education in fashion school. Instead, I’ve pursued self-education and experimentation, forging a unique path that diverges from traditional methods. The relevance and themes of my collections stem from my personal interests and evolving tastes as a designer. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources, I’m particularly intrigued by architectural monuments, finding parallels between their proportions, shapes, and the intricate detailing inherent in suit-making. Additionally, my artistic sensibilities lead me to derive inspiration from renowned paintings worldwide. I’m captivated by the vibrant colors, expressive strokes, and emotive depth conveyed in these artworks. Through my eclectic approach to inspiration, I believe that creativity knows no bounds, and opportunities for innovation abound for those willing to explore diverse realms of influence.
Can you tell us about the most consciously considered part of the design and concept?
DICKSON: The cornerstone of my design philosophy lies in meticulous consideration of several key factors. Firstly, I assess whether a design presents a significant challenge, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and technical skills. Secondly, I scrutinize its potential impact on my audience, striving to create pieces that leave a lasting impression, lingering in their minds long after the initial encounter. Finally, I gauge the personal excitement generated by the collection’s creation process, ensuring that both myself and my audience are enthralled by the journey. By prioritizing these elements, I endeavor to craft designs that not only challenge and inspire but also resonate deeply with those who encounter them.
Being the youngest fashion designer to debut at KLFW and the first Malaysian-born designer to dress a celebrity at the Oscars, can you share your thoughts on these memorable experiences with our readers?
DICKSON: Realizing my dreams has been a surreal journey, surpassing even the grandest ambitions I harbored as a child. Hailing from a small town in Sarawak, I never imagined that my aspirations would extend beyond the confines of local expectations. Growing up, I viewed dreams and ambitions as fantastical notions confined to the realm of cinema, never considering them attainable in reality. Collaborating with global artists and gracing the stages of prestigious events like the Oscars seemed unfathomable. However, amidst these lofty aspirations, my unwavering focus remained fixed on honing my craft and creating exceptional designs with each collection.
By prioritizing the pursuit of excellence and remaining steadfast in my dedication, I’ve found that life has a way of aligning with our deepest aspirations. Through this journey, I’ve learned that by staying true to my passion and dedicating myself to my craft, the fulfillment of my dreams becomes an inevitable consequence, transcending the boundaries of what once seemed impossible.
This year marks the 4th anniversary of the brand. Looking back at the journey over these 4 years, what challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them?
DICKSON: Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered several challenges that have tested my resolve. Stepping into the fashion industry initially overwhelmed me with feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome, particularly as someone who lacked formal education from a fashion school. At times, I questioned whether I was truly a legitimate designer or merely an imposter. However, I came to realize that my worth as a designer transcends any certification; it’s defined by the passion, dedication, and authenticity I bring to my craft each day. Devoting approximately nine hours daily to refining my brand, from meticulously cutting patterns to strategizing its growth, I gradually affirmed my identity as a designer through deliberate action and unwavering commitment.
Another significant challenge I faced revolved around managing disappointments when outcomes fell short of expectations. For instance, after the resounding success of my first and second collections, I attempted to pivot towards a more commercially viable approach with my third collection, hoping to appeal to a broader audience. However, this departure from my brand’s signature aesthetic proved ineffective, resulting in a loss of the distinctiveness that had garnered acclaim. I realized that authenticity and creativity must never be sacrificed for the sake of commercial appeal. Authenticity is the cornerstone of a brand’s identity, and any compromise risks diluting its essence, alienating loyal followers, and diminishing its impact. This invaluable lesson underscored the importance of remaining true to my brand’s DNA while continually striving for innovation and refinement. As a designer, authenticity is my compass, guiding every creative decision and ensuring that my work resonates genuinely with both myself and my audience.
Is it possible for letting know a little bit about the ideas of next collection and some future goals?
DICKSON: With each new collection, I endeavor to surpass the standards set by previous creations. Currently, I am immersed in the development of my upcoming collection, integrating novel elements and pioneering techniques never before seen in DL. I am eager to unveil these innovations to the world and invite anticipation for what lies ahead. Additionally, I am exploring the prospect of launching an online tailoring class, an endeavor driven by my passion for teaching and preserving the art of tailoring and handcraft. Through this platform, I aim to share the insights and techniques gleaned from my journey, enriching the global community with the knowledge that has fueled my own creative evolution. Stay tuned for updates on these exciting ventures, as I continue to push the boundaries of innovation and education within the realm of fashion and craftsmanship.
Do you have any advice for our readers who are considering to start their career or even their own business in fashion industry?
DICKSON: In all honesty, when contemplating your future career path, I strongly advocate for recognizing and leveraging your unique advantages. Consider what sets you apart—your “unfair advantage”—and align your career choice accordingly. For instance, being born into a family of tailors has afforded me invaluable connections with fabric suppliers and manufacturers, granting me a competitive edge within the fashion sector. Pursuing a career in a field where you possess inherent connections and expertise can significantly enhance your prospects for success.
However, I want to emphasize that not having an unfair advantage does not preclude you from achieving your dreams. It simply means that the journey may be more challenging compared to those who possess such advantages. Nevertheless, I encourage proactive decision-making in selecting a career path and leveraging any available advantages to gain a competitive edge. By strategically maneuvering within your unique circumstances, you can position yourself for success and maximize your potential in your chosen field. I’m also not suggesting it’s impossible, it’s just that when you go against your unfair advantage, you got to work harder than everyone else who does.
I continue to push the boundaries of innovation and education within the realm of fashion and craftsmanship.
