Despite being only 18 years old, Eriya Miura has already made a name for herself in the Cambodian fashion community.

Now studying to be a fashion designer at Raffles International College, she began making her own clothes in the ninth grade and has released her own collection, Aurum, focusing on elegance and sophistication while ensuring her products are still easily wearable.

Her collection contrasts black and gold to display an opulent parade of historical references using brocade, velvet and silk as materials.

The clothes she designs are luxurious and feminine without being too classic.

Among the items Miura has developed for her collection are slitted skirts, the bolero jacket with angular shoulder lines, lace appliqués and wide range of military inspired garments both for men and women.

Her menswear mini-collection reveals a mix of influence from historical military clothing, contemporary urban styles and ‘90s grunge, a concept extended to her casual wear.

Some of her collection was recently presented at a fashion show at the Plantation Hotel.

The fabric she uses has all been sourced from local markets in Phnom Penh, with the designer preferring to work geometric and tribal prints on account of their interesting look and versatility across a range of different types of garment.

Miura prefers to use subtle colours because they look more severe than bright colours and go with just about anything.

She likes fashion design for the endless possibilities available to her, but says she is sad that sometimes she has to sacrifice some of her more outlandish designs for more practical alternatives.

Miura hopes to one day be internationally recognised and see stores stock her wares across the globe.

Eriya Miura will be exhibiting her Aurum collection during Cambodian Fashion Week in December.

To contact the reporter on this story: Chhim Sreyneang at [email protected]