By: Alva Ree
The fashion world is always looking for the next big thing, but few expected the surprise that Momen, a rising Indonesian fashion brand, would bring to New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Combining traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics, Momen took the global stage by storm with its fresh approach to men’s fashion. The brand’s central inspiration is the timeless art of batik, an Indonesian cultural treasure, yet the intricate, completely manual production process has left audiences in awe.
Momen’s rise to prominence didn’t come out of nowhere. It is grounded in a rich cultural history, but what set it apart was its innovative reimagining of this heritage for a modern, international audience. The intricate patterns of batik, painstakingly created by hand, were seamlessly merged with contemporary silhouettes that speak to the global fashion enthusiast.
“I was blown away! It’s incredible to see that these stylish batik patterns are all handmade. I’m genuinely excited about this brand. It’s truly remarkable. Even fashion stylists from Paris are showing interest in Momen. The collection is versatile enough for everyday wear,” said Valeriia Manziuk, a prominent American producer and brand ambassador for the renowned Ukrainian lingerie brand Lady Hunter Lingerie.
In an age where fashion is often defined by speed, with fast fashion reigning supreme, men are a beacon of traditional craftsmanship. The brand has opted to preserve the time-honored process of batik making—a technique that involves an intricate and labor-intensive process. Each garment goes through several detailed stages, including pengkhetelan (pattern making), granting (applying wax), nemboki (covering undyed sections), dyeing, grok (removing wax), and good (boiling the fabric to reveal the final pattern). This process, which demands exceptional precision and skill, ensures that every piece of clothing is truly one of a kind, embodying a level of artistry that is increasingly rare in today’s fashion landscape.

Photo Courtesy: Alex Dani
Valeriia Manziuk admired the brand’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage in the modern fashion scene. “The patterns are incredibly stylish. I was discussing with a friend, and we both agreed that Momen’s designs would be perfect for the next NYFW season. In a world dominated by fast fashion, it’s amazing to see a brand so dedicated to preserving tradition, art, and culture,” Manziuk added.
But Momen’s mission goes beyond just offering beautiful clothing. The brand aims to change perceptions of batik, especially among younger generations in Indonesia. Batik has been considered outdated or only suitable for formal occasions for too long. Momen seeks to transform this mindset by introducing batik in fresh, modern cuts that align with global fashion trends. Through their collection, they’ve proven that batik can be an excellent and relevant fashion choice, appealing to the contemporary tastes of young people worldwide.
Besides its distinctive designs and craftsmanship, Momen is also gaining attention for its eco-conscious approach. The brand’s environmentally friendly production process, which utilizes natural dyes and minimizes pollution, offers a sustainable alternative to the often environmentally damaging fast fashion industry. Even more surprising is the brand’s ability to produce these high-quality, artisanal garments at affordable prices. “It’s unbelievable! How is it possible for Momen to create such high-quality products at such affordable prices? They must have worked incredibly hard to deliver this. It’s amazing to have access to such unique and well-crafted designs,” Manziuk remarked after learning that Momen’s casual batik pieces were priced much lower than she anticipated.
By making traditional batik accessible and affordable, Momen empowers Indonesia’s younger generation to embrace their cultural heritage while staying stylish and fashionable. The brand’s commitment to sustainable practices further enhances its appeal, making it a standout in an industry where environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important.
Momen’s breakthrough at New York Fashion Week is a testament to its ability to blend tradition with innovation. By stepping onto one of the world’s most prestigious fashion stages, Momen has demonstrated that traditional craftsmanship can evolve and thrive in the modern fashion industry. The brand’s success celebrates Indonesian heritage and encourages the fashion world to embrace the richness of culture and the value of handmade artistry.
With its growing international recognition, Momen is leading the charge for a new wave of fashion that celebrates cultural authenticity and uniqueness. The brand’s influence could inspire more designers and fashion houses around the globe to look back to their roots, rediscover their cultural traditions, and infuse them into modern fashion.
The brand’s future looks promising as Momen continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Their designs are more than just clothing—they celebrate culture, craftsmanship, and sustainability. In an industry where trends come and go, Momen is a reminder that the best fashion is timeless, rooted in tradition, and mindful of its impact on the world.
In the fast-paced fashion world, men are a breath of fresh air. It is a brand that dares to be different by honoring the past while looking toward the future. Their presence at New York Fashion Week marks just the beginning of what could be a long-lasting influence on the global fashion industry. Whether on the runway or in everyday life, Momen’s unique approach will leave a lasting impression on fashion lovers everywhere.
Published by: Holy Minoza