During FMT’s visit to her vibrant and colourful studio in Klang, Sarla explained that she began her career as a graphic designer but knew in her heart that she wanted to explore fashion design.
After almost two decades as a graphic designer, Sarla grew restless, wanting to escape from her comfort zone.
And so, when the opportunity presented itself, she finally pursued her dream at the IFTC International Academy of Fashion & Design – despite disapproval from her doubtful parents.
In 2019, Sarla took a leap of faith and established Sarlaz Fashion, which she describes as a “fashion-forward handcrafted jewellery line”.
“I began my fashion line with pendants but noticed quickly that my customers were very fond of earrings, so I tried my hand at them. Thankfully the earrings were a hit!” elaborated Sarla.
Apart from her goal to carve her own path in the fashion world, Sarla also hopes to change people’s perceptions about handcrafted goods.
“Usually, when people hear the word ‘handcraft’, they automatically assume that it may not look good on them so I ensure that my pieces are fashionable and provide my customers with confidence.
“Sometimes you may feel not so great, but the right accessories will definitely light you up!”
With the small but significant successes that she had amassed with her business, the ambitious designer eagerly sent her portfolio to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
To her delight, Sarla was selected as one of the 10 Malaysian brands to participate in 2020’s UK fashion trade show, Pure London.
Initially intimidated, her fears quickly dissipated as curious onlookers were attracted by the vibrant colours of her handcrafted jewellery and flocked to her booth.
One of Sarla’s most memorable experiences at Pure London was when Dame Zandra Rhodes, the iconic British fashion designer who also designed outfits for Princess Diana, dropped by her stall and fell in love with her earrings.
“The support was overwhelming. I even collaborated with a lovely elderly couple who ran a stall in Covent Garden and sold 12 pairs of earrings – 11 within 48 hours!” said Sarla.
After returning from the UK, Sarla travelled to Paris for a fashion shoot and came back to Malaysia on March 2, 2020.
The designer had big plans to return to the UK in June to set up her complete collection at the couple’s store at Covent Garden, as they were more than happy to continue selling Sarla’s pieces.
Alas on March 18, the Movement Control Order (MCO) and the travel ban were announced.
Her travel plans were put on hold indefinitely, which meant that the collaboration also had to be put on hold.
Dreams dashed, Sarla spent three months wallowing in depression, refusing to leave her bed.
“I felt heartbroken. That was my opportunity to prove to my parents and whoever doubted me that I was able to make it as a fashion designer,” sighed Sarla.
In the midst of her depression, something brought her hope and it came in the form of her dog, the adorable 11-year-old Bhairu.
He became her pillar and emotional support during those difficult times.
“I realised that a lot of my life has to do with my dogs. So instead of moaning over bygones, I decided to channel my frustrations into creativity and came up with artistic phone covers themed around animals,” smiled Sarla as she gave Bhairu a quick kiss.
“I’ve adopted another dog and I often have strays visiting my house every evening for food. Being alongside them and feeding them gives me unbridled happiness,” she confessed.
Sarla, who simply cannot imagine her life without her pets, is grateful for the inspiration they provided to her.
And it is thanks to her furry friends that she managed to get back up on her feet and is now set on focusing on the future.
“Things might have not worked out for me in London, but I’ve turned to something new now,” said an optimistic Sarla, who is preparing to open up a Sarlaz Fashion booth in June at Kedai KL, a street market concept that supports homegrown brands and products.
Just like her jewellery, Sarla proves that life — with a little bit of patience, time and hard work — will eventually become a beautiful and colourful piece of art.
Interested to get your hands on one of her beautiful pieces? Check out Sarlaz Fashion on its Facebook and Instagram page or you can WhatsApp 018 3175185.