5 questions with … designer Priscilla Shunmugam

What would you say to someone who sees the cheongsam purely as costume?

The cheongsam enjoys a strange position as the most accepted, yet contested, symbol of Chinese identity. To some, it represents sophistication; yet to others, backwardness. It's important to keep questioning our reasons for putting on any traditional dress, and the best part is I think Asians today are fully capable of asking those questions and providing the answers.

What, in your opinion, completes the outfit?

A sense of quiet confidence.

Ong Shunmugam is located at 16 Raffles Quay, #B1-36, Hong Leong Building. Prices for their Ready-To-Wear collections range between S$428 and S$588. Customised outfits take up to eight weeks for completion.

Opening hours: Noon to 7pm on weekdays and weekends by appointment.

Tel: 6223 4804.