Fashion designer Fong-Leng gained fame in the 1970s with her extravagant creations. Colorful gowns and coats adorned with animal appliqués, made of leather, pleated silk, fur, and rhinestones. The eccentric and colorful Mathilde de Doelder, the third wife of realist painter Carel Willink, was not only a close friend but also one of Fong-Leng's most famous clients. Currently, four of Fong-Leng's creations are on display at Ruurlo Castle.
Fong-Leng opened her boutique on Amsterdam’s PC Hooftstraat in 1971. The entire Amsterdam avant-garde frequented her store—people unafraid to dress extravagantly and wealthy enough to afford her spectacular creations. Her most important client, who was also one of her best friends, was the well-known "society star" Mathilde Willink (1938–1977), then the wife of painter Carel Willink. After their first meeting, Mathilde Willink wore only Fong-Leng’s clothing for the rest of her life.
The spectacular fashion shows of artist Fong-Leng were groundbreaking events with models dancing to trendy 1970s and 1980s music. Get into the spirit with soul, funk, and synth-pop through our special Spotify playlist.
From Amsterdam to Paris…
The influence of the Chinese-Dutch fashion designer and artist on contemporary designers is significant. Modern fashion designers such as Bas Kosters, Mattijs van Bergen, and Viktor & Rolf are all captivated by Fong-Leng. Their contemporary creations clearly show inspiration drawn from Fong-Leng’s theatrical designs. In October 2013, Dries Van Noten showcased gold-colored pleats in Paris reminiscent of Fong-Leng’s work.
Recently, our museum granted special permission to top photographer and Fong-Leng fan Ferry van der Nat to revive some of the fashion diva’s extravagant creations in our depot. Stunning models appeared to showcase her couture once again for the international magazine Dapper Dan.
*This photo is not on display in our museum.
Discover the magic
by Carel Willink
