Where tradition finds a modern shape
A pioneer in reimagining Indonesian textiles, Oscar Lawalata is best known for breathing fresh life into traditional batik through modern, effortless silhouettes. His label, Oscar Lawalata Culture, champions lesser-known styles such as Prada, Sogan and Tanahan, while working closely with artisans across the archipelago.
For years, Oscar has carried Indonesia’s cultural identity onto international runways, using fashion as a bridge between heritage and the contemporary world. Today, his work remains a benchmark in how tradition can adapt – beautifully – to modern style.
Obin Komara (Josephine W. Komara)
The global powerhouse
Since founding BINHouse in Menteng in 1986, Josephine W. Korama – or Obin Komara – Obin has championed craftsmanship with unparalleled dedication. Her work elevates batik beyond clothing, transforming it into wearable art rich in texture, colour and history.
Her pieces now appear in boutiques across Japan, Europe, the Middle East and the US, proving that Indonesian heritage can captivate global fashion lovers while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.
Elegance and detail
Known for his refined couture sensibility, Didi Budiardjo approaches batik with a romantic eye and a meticulous hand. His designs blend antique textiles and vintage patterns with modern glamour, resulting in feminine silhouettes rich in texture and emotion.
A passionate researcher of traditional batik, Didi continually studies motifs, techniques and histories, translating them into contemporary pieces that feel both fresh and deeply nostalgic.
Four decades of cultural glamour
With more than 40 years in fashion, Ghea Panggabean has turned batik, ikat and jumputan into chic, wearable statement pieces. Her aesthetic blends bohemian elegance with Indonesian heritage, making traditional motifs feel modern without losing their roots.
Ghea remains one of the country’s most active cultural ambassadors, consistently reintroducing forgotten fabrics to younger audiences and ensuring Indonesia’s textile legacy remains alive in the mainstream.
A breath of fresh air
A force in Indonesia’s young fashion scene, Dian Pelangi has redefined how the new generation wears batik. Known for her vibrant colours, bold hijab styling and strong social media presence, Dian adapts traditional motifs for contemporary youth fashion.
Her fearless, unconventional combinations ensure batik never feels dull or repetitive, proving that heritage can be energetic, playful and completely modern.
The house of timeless luxury batik
The late Iwan Tirta remains one of Indonesia’s most iconic batik designers, elevating the craft into the realm of luxury. His namesake house continues his legacy with exquisite pieces made from premium fabrics like silk and organza, featuring meticulously rendered motifs and elegantly classic patterns.
Today, Iwan Tirta’s designs remain the go-to choice for collectors and connoisseurs seeking refinement, heritage and sophistication in every thread.
Heritage on the global runway
Denny Wirawan has made waves internationally, most recently with his Kudus batik collection at New York Fashion Week. His designs often feature layered gowns, tailored coats and contemporary silhouettes that push the boundaries of batik’s traditional form.
He maintains a strong ethnic identity in his work, using traditional materials to highlight Indonesia’s rich textile heritage on the world stage.
Experimental craft with a magical edge
One of Indonesia’s most innovative designers, Mel Ahyar approaches batik with bold experimentation. Her collections often play with unexpected proportions, vivid patterns and surrealist storytelling, blending Dutch colonial motifs with her signature contemporary flair.
Mel’s designs prove that batik is not only timeless but also endlessly adaptable, capable of becoming avant-garde, theatrical or dreamlike while still honouring its origins.
