Instead of a dragon or a butterfly, the fabric comes with simple patterns and light elegant colors. The loose-fitting pants are more tailored, and give an illusion of longer legs with openings at the bottom.

"I try to keep everything neat and clean. We take a garment that is very traditional and use elements that don't belong there. Women like it because they find this is exactly what they want: something modern and current but at the same time with a little bit of their roots," Shunmugam says.

Ne Tiger, a Chinese fashion label known for drawing on traditional Chinese attire from different dynasties and ethnic groups, showed some of its best-sellers on the runway.

Seven pieces from the label were exhibited, including a red silk gown that uses seven ancient weaving techniques and has been collected by the Capital Museum.

"Many of the fabrics showcased today originated from China. But they have developed new characteristics in the ASEAN countries. Compared to Chinese outfits, they have even stronger personalities while Chinese costumes are more diverse," says Tiger Zhang, founder and art director of Ne Tiger.

Important guests attending the opening ceremony included Cai Wu, minister of culture of China, and Daw Sanda Khin, vice-minister of culture of Myanmar.

The exhibition runs until April 17.