When I founded SAU LEE ten years ago, my dream was to harmoniously blend modern silhouettes with traditional Chinese elements, creating beautiful garments that celebrated my heritage while resonating with women around the world. Over the past decade, seeing my designs worn by so many women has been deeply rewarding, and The Fashion Awards was no exception.
The Fashion Awards hosted by the British Fashion Council at Royal Albert Hall was more than an event — a milestone in our journey. To mark SAU LEE’s decennial anniversary, I invited a group of inspiring women to join me for the evening, celebrating not just fashion but the spirit of community, creativity, and empowerment that has defined how we have grown as a global brand.
My muses for the evening included Ming Lee Simmons, Naomi J. Ogawa, Viky Rader, Tahnee Atkinson, Grace Carter and Amalie Gassmann. All outstanding women who are rising stars in music, film, and fashion.
The hours leading up to the awards were filled with an undeniable sense of magic. Watching these incredible women get ready together – laughing, sharing stories, and connecting – was as meaningful as the evening itself. Each dress I had designed for them was a labour of love, and seeing their faces light up as they slipped into their SAU LEE looks was a moment I will always cherish.
For Ming Lee Simmons, I created a daring naked gown in see-through fabric intricately adorned with diamond-shaped copper crystals. A mandarin collar, satin piping, and traditional pankou knot buttons added a signature SAU LEE touch.
Tahnee Atkinson’s ensemble reimagined the classic Cheongsam, featuring black tulle embroidered with sequined florals layered over sultry black undergarments for a bold, modern edge.
Naomi J. Ogawa stunned in a silver sequined mini dress with a teardrop cutout and mandarin collar under a dramatic silver satin opera coat, while Grace Carter opted for timeless glamour in a slinky, backless silver gown with a plunging neckline, styled with our faux fur Quinton Coat.
Viky Rader dazzled in a two-piece creation: a sheer, crystal-encrusted bodysuit paired with a floor-length gala skirt featuring a high slit for dramatic effect. Amalie Gassmann radiated femininity in a delicate embroidered maxi adorned with soft pink floral details on sheer nude tulle.
And for myself, I turned to our Decennial Capsule wearing the Faye, a sequined Cheongsam that honours my brand’s roots while looking toward our future.
The red carpet at the Royal Albert Hall was everything I’d dreamed of and more. The grandeur of the moment—the sweeping staircase, the flashing cameras, the buzz of excitement in the air—was intoxicating. Watching incredible women step onto the carpet, glowing in their SAU LEE creations among the world’s most celebrated fashion figures, was an indescribable mix of pride and awe.
I stood off to the side, taking it all in—the culmination of ten years of hard work, passion, and perseverance. It was a moment I’ll carry with me forever.
The Fashion Awards 2024 was just the beginning of SAU LEE everywhere. The world is just starting to see who we are, and I can’t wait to share everything that lies ahead.
Editor
Cheryl LeungCredit
Photos Courtesy of Cheryl Leung and SAU LEE
