Stylish Asian Actors That Embody Classic and New Elegance
Cinema has long had an impact on the fashion world. Just as a fictional character can set a trend, actors have the power to redefine the very concept of style and beauty

Cinema has always influenced the world of fashion. Ray-Ban noted a significant profit surge after Tom Cruise wore the brand’s Original Wayfarers in Risky Business, while Diane Keaton made menswear look chic on women in Annie Hall.
In the same way a fictional character can shape a trend, actors can redefine what it means to look good.
The Philippines: Michael Sager

Fronting VMAN Southeast Asia’s digital cover for January, Michael Sager is a rising star not only in the Philippines, but across the region. The 21-year-old Filipino-Canadian has charmed audiences with his boyish good looks, reminiscent of matinee idols of classic Asian cinemas and shows.
His journey into the world of acting was paved by the powerful narratives of Asian cinema. Despite being raised in Canada, he and his family immersed themselves in Filipino and broader Asian media, seeking stories that resonated with them.
Michael’s early foray into that field came through background roles in Hollywood productions filmed in Vancouver, including Disney’s Descendants. Now back in the Philippines, he is starring in his own primetime drama series, and we cannot wait to see him grace more silver screens in the future.
Malaysia: Meerqeen

Muhammad Shameer Shauqeen Shaiful Izam, or Meerqeen, is best known in Malaysia for his leading role in the 2022 series Melur untuk Firdaus. Outside of showbiz, he established himself as a sartorial icon thanks to his tasteful style that combines classic menswear and streetwear.
He’ll wear a handsomely fitted gray pinstripe suit that evokes old Hollywood one day, then an all-denim, all-Gucci look the next. Meerqeen’s style has landed him brand deals with Tiffany & Co., Dior, and Hublot.
He is also YSL Beauty’s first Malaysian brand ambassador, representing the luxury brand’s foundation and fragrance.
Myanmar: Paing Takhon

Paing Takhon went viral in 2021 when his photos, where he had a shaved head and a one-shouldered robe, spread online. He was dubbed as the “hot monk.”
Paing is, in fact, not a monk but a model, actor, and singer (he was in a monastery for a 10-day retreat). He is known for his starring roles in Midnight Travellers, Rent Boy, and The Night Curse of Reatrei.
His Instagram feed shows the actor balancing traditional clothing from Myanmar and Western suits. He looks polished in all his looks (including the viral one-shouldered robe).
Thailand: Mile Phakphum

Phakphum Romsaithong, also known as Mile, is known for starring in the boys’ love series KinnPorsche and the historical drama Man Suang. Besides acting, Mile is also beloved for his sense of style.
He makes a strong case for monochromatic styling on his Instagram feed, which shows him dressed in tailored suits, varsity jackets, and sweatshirts in blue, gray, white, brown, and black. Sometimes, you’ll catch a peek at a watch, which might be from his collection of vintage timepieces.
Mile is an ambassador for Dior and holds the distinction of being Bulgari’s first male Friend of the House for Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Singapore: Desmond Tan

Desmond Tan became one of Singapore’s most sought-after actors after his critically acclaimed and award-winning performance in the 2011 series A Song to Remember. He is also known for his love of fashion and pushing boundaries when dressing.
In an interview, Desmond shared that the “whole idea of design isn’t centered on gender” and that he owns clothing and trinkets designed for women. He even said he used to accessorize his outfits with his mother’s jewelry.
The actor’s love for fashion has paid off: he is the first Singaporean actor invited to fashion weeks in Paris and Milan. Desmond also secured partnerships with luxury labels such as Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Dior.
Vietnam: Ke Huy Quan

Ke Huy Quan disappeared from the public eye after his portrayals in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Goonies, and a few movies in the ‘90s. The Vietnamese actor returned with a vengeance in 2022 with Everything Everywhere All at Once (EEAAO).
Even more surprising is that Quan maintained his youthful charm even after an almost two-year hiatus. His sartorial choices reflect this charm: the actor switches from classic suits by Thom Browne and Gucci to bolder choices that reflect his playfulness, like a ruby red Armani velvet jacket, an emerald green corduroy blazer, and a mustard Paul Smith sweater.
Throughout the red carpet, Quan wore a googly eye lapel pin as an homage to his role in EEAAO, proving that a child-like spirit is often the best accessory.
Hong Kong: Tony Leung

Tony Leung is every cinephile’s ideal guy for his stirring roles in classics such as Chungking Express, Happy Together, In the Mood for Love, and Lust, Caution.
Asia’s Clark Gable charmed audiences with his expressive eyes, brooding demeanor, and impeccable style. For In the Mood for Love, director Wong Kar Wai and costume and production designer William Chang dressed Tony in a classy wardrobe of sharp suits and floral ties that emphasize the story.
Tony continues his stylish streak outside his movies in timeless suits. His luster continues to shine; he made his Hollywood debut in 2021 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings to critical acclaim.
Photos via Meerqeen, Paing, Mile, Desmond, Quan (via Instagram) and Tony (via IMDB)