Crazy is the new normal

NIGEL LOW is INSAINT.
Despite having no formal fashion training, the 21-year-old from Malacca made the unusual decision to become a designer.
The fledgeling fashion label he started earlier this year is possibly the newest brand in town the final result of his arduous journey in his chosen career field.

A label made of multi-layered interpretations, the name INSAINT is a double entendre, devised to be understood in two different ways.
It is an amalgamation of 'insane' and 'saint', each word relying on the other to convey the alternative nuance Nigel hopes to achieve.
He explained: “Most people define the word 'insane', as someone who is mentally deranged but it really depends on your mindset. For me, 'insane' [means] someone who is just different,” he explained.
“'Saint' is used to describe someone who is virtuous, above the ordinary, therefore I want the viewers to be different in their own way and feel comfortable in their own skin.”
Low's unique perspective on mental lunacy challenges social norms while suggesting 'crazy is the new normal' as an expression of self-confidence.

His Spring/Summer ‘18 collection – themed 'Mind Control' – is more than just a collection of apparel in monochromatic tones reflecting the simplicity of life without any unnecessary ostentation.
Instead, the collection focuses more on the details and contextual aspects that could lead us to setting our own agendas and paving out own paths.
“I’ve got a really strong message, I want people nowadays to have their own perception,” Low explained.
“Historically, it has always been us following the masses. However, I want the viewers to be in full control of their mental state to make clear of what they really want.”
Low seems to want to remind people that social constructs are nothing more than a system designed to pressure the majority into conforming. This can be seen in his decision to put the word 'Psychiatrist' on the lab coats as a way of conveying: “I want the people to be psychiatrist of themselves.”
“There is this statement which says ‘-100 HP’, it means in reality we are still living but our lives are meaningless and senseless if you’re adapting to everyone else rather than doing something for yourself. Ultimately, you have to think what is best for yourself.”
Now was that a politically-charged statement or an observation of the present? Regardless, Low's approach to raising societal awareness with his brand is merely his way of expressing his past experiences, while indicating a larger purpose in life.
Not many brands would opt for his kind of standpoint in the fashion landscape. But INSAINT fall under high-fashion or streetwear to begin with.
Instead, Low describes it as "art". A conceptual art practice which could be anything and everything a person choose to perceive.
But has his stance reflected the DNA of the brand in addressing socially relevant topics, while maintaining its current aesthetics?
Low's first foray into fashion has left many questions unanswered. Still, he has emerged as a force to perhaps shake up the local fashion scene.
He explains: “I feel that the industry in Malaysia has a long way to go. Since the majority of the established labels are adapting to the market, they have been neglecting their plot and stories which I find it to be an important aspect to hold onto,” he said.
“As a newcomer, I learn things in a different manner and as much as I can despite not attending fashion school.
"But art has no specific criteria in dictating what you should or should not do.
“I am doing it for the stories.”