In the world of fashion, where trends often reign supreme, authenticity can be a rare gem. Enter Gilbert Francis Untam, an Iban designer from Sibu, Sarawak, whose brand, Gilbert Headhunter, seamlessly blends the rich heritage of Borneo with modern, sustainable fashion. As part of Fashion Herald’s exclusive initiative – The Fashion Collective, we caught up with Gilbert to discuss his journey, his inspiration, and how he uses fashion to celebrate his roots while addressing global challenges.

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From Interiors to Fashion: A Journey of Passion and Persistence

When asked about his entry into the fashion industry, Gilbert describes his journey as a blend of passion, persistence, and unexpected detours.

“From a young age, I was drawn to fashion, sketching designs in notebooks and dreaming of bringing my visions to life,” he shares. However, life initially steered him toward Interior Architecture, a field in which he enjoyed a fulfilling career.

But fashion was never far from his heart. “About six years ago, I began reintroducing myself to this world, blending my design sensibilities from interiors into fabric and form. The pandemic was a pivotal moment—it allowed me to fully immerse myself in fashion as a creative outlet and a way to reconnect with my cultural roots.”

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Material Matters: A Story of Sustainability and Symbolism

For Gilbert, every design starts with the materials. These are not just components of a garment but elements of storytelling, deeply tied to his Iban heritage.

“I’m drawn to traditional textiles like Pua Kumbu and Borneo-inspired batik, which carry a legacy of artistry and symbolism,” he explains. Beyond these textiles, Gilbert experiments with Buriek (shells) and Tekalung (tree bark)—sustainable materials that honor nature and tradition.

“Using these materials allows me to craft designs that celebrate the past while advocating for a more responsible future in fashion,” he adds.

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Designing with Purpose: A Philosophy of Harmony

Gilbert’s design philosophy is as refreshing as his creations. “I see fashion as a powerful medium for storytelling. Each piece is a tribute to my heritage and a bridge to the contemporary world,” he says.

His collections evoke pride and curiosity, encouraging wearers to connect with the cultural narratives behind the designs. “I want people to see my work as stylish, relevant, and timeless, while also appreciating the beauty and intricacies of Borneo’s art.”

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Inspiration Rooted in Nature and Culture

The creative process behind Gilbert Headhunter is steeped in Borneo’s rich tapestry of nature and culture. From traditional costumes and symbolic tattoos to the lush forests and vibrant wildlife, Gilbert draws inspiration from it all.

“Majestic birds like the Hornbill or the patterns of our vibrant flora carry stories, emotions, and connections that I aim to translate into my designs,” he shares. This inspiration is meticulously crafted into patterns and motifs, ensuring each piece reflects the spirit of Borneo while being contemporary and sustainable.

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Trends vs. Authenticity: Staying True to Roots

In an era dominated by fast-paced trends, Gilbert remains steadfast in his authenticity. “While I stay informed about trends, my focus is on expressing my unique perspective and honoring the cultural heritage that grounds my designs,” he emphasizes.

Instead of following trends, Gilbert reinterprets them through the lens of Borneo’s cultural richness, creating collections that feel modern yet timeless. “I want to inspire people to appreciate culture in a way that feels relevant and enduring.”

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The Road Ahead

With Gilbert Headhunter, Gilbert Francis Untam is not just creating fashion; he’s crafting a movement—a celebration of culture, sustainability, and storytelling. His work serves as a reminder that fashion can be both innovative and deeply meaningful, bridging the past and the present.

As part of The Fashion Collective initiative, Fashion Herald celebrates designers like Gilbert, who use their craft to bring cultures to the global stage while addressing pressing global challenges.

Stay tuned for more such inspiring stories in our interview series as we continue to spotlight trailblazers in the world of fashion.

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