Barney Cheng
Barney Cheng is a Hong Kong couture and jewellery designer who founded his atelier in 1993. He is known for made to measure evening gowns, a signature cheongsam series and clients such as Michelle Yeoh.
| Atelier founded | 1993 |
|---|---|
| Designer | Barney Cheng |
| Base | Wyndham Street, Hong Kong |
| Specialities | Couture gowns, cheongsam, jewellery |
| Notable client | Michelle Yeoh |
What is Barney Cheng?
Barney Cheng is a Hong Kong fashion and jewellery designer whose atelier, founded in 1993 under the name Yenrabi, creates made to measure pieces for a private clientele. He works from a studio on Wyndham Street in Central, Hong Kong.
History
Cheng studied fine arts at the University of Waterloo in Canada, textile and design at the Royal College of Art in London, and fashion illustration and the history of European costume at Parsons in Paris. A Young Designers' Award in 1993 gave him the confidence to open his own atelier.
Products and positioning
The atelier is known for entrance making evening gowns, alongside less formal pieces, jewellery, uniform designs and a signature cheongsam series. Clients include socialites and celebrities, most prominently the actress Michelle Yeoh, whom he dressed for the Oscars.
Recognition
- Designer of the Year, Harper's Bazaar Hong Kong (2002)
- Fashion Designer of the Year, Bazaar Style Awards (2006)
- Named among the 25 Influential Chinese in Global Fashion by Forbes China (2010)
- Honorary Fellowship of Hong Kong's Vocational Training Council (2015)
Why it matters
Barney Cheng is one of the defining names in Hong Kong couture, showing how a bespoke atelier model can build a lasting reputation with a small, high profile clientele.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Barney Cheng?
Barney Cheng is a Hong Kong couture and jewellery designer who opened his own atelier in 1993.
What is Barney Cheng known for?
He is known for made to measure evening gowns, a signature cheongsam series and dressing clients such as Michelle Yeoh.