The Art of 'Bali Sabi: The Marriage of Two Worlds - Understanding Finix's Design Concept
At Finix, we believe in more than just fashion; we craft experiences. Our unique visual merchandising concept, ‘Bali Sabi,’ is a deep dive into the art and design philosophy behind the Finix brand. It is a tale of marrying two worlds - one rooted in the serene aesthetics of Japan, where our founder Leonard once resided, and the other in the tropical lusciousness of Southeast Asia, reflecting his Singaporean/Southeast Asian heritage.
Through Leonard’s lens, this concept becomes more than just a design choice; it is a reflection of his journey, a fusion of cultures and an invitation to experience the world of Finix through a harmonious balance of tranquillity and authenticity.
The Origins: Wabi Sabi Meets Bali
‘Bali Sabi’ is a portmanteau of Wabi Sabi - the Japanese philosophy of embracing imperfection, transience and simplicity - and Bali, a symbolic place of tropical retreat, relaxation and inner peace. Wabi Sabi finds beauty in the imperfect and aged, celebrating authenticity and natural wear over time. It is a reminder that flaws are not to be hidden but cherished, just as life itself is an ever-evolving journey.
Bali, on the other hand, holds personal significance for our founder, Leonard. Growing up in Singapore, he frequently travelled there - along with other places in Southeast Asia - with his family and friends, finding respite from Singapore’s fast-paced urban life. Bali represents an oasis - where the rhythmic waves, lush greenery and laid-back culture provide a much-needed breather. The island is also symbolic of the beautiful resorts and pristine beaches scattered across Southeast Asia, a nod to Leonard’s Singaporean and Southeast Asian roots.
Thus, Bali Sabi is the fusion of Wabi Sabi’s minimalist elegance and Bali’s tropical tranquillity - a reflection of balance, grounding and returning back to one's own roots - your identity, your home.
Bringing Bali Sabi to life: The Finix brand experience
The Bali Sabi philosophy is deeply embedded in our brand design/space. Some may have experienced it at our pop-up booths at the bi-annual Boutiques and at our various exhibitions around the world. Each space is curated to be an escape from the noise of the outside world - offering a moment of pause, a breath of calmness, a sanctuary of self-expression. It is a safe space, free from judgement, where you can be who you truly are.
1. The aesthetic: tropical meets zen
Our design concept marries the rustic, handcrafted elements of Bali with the quiet, minimalist beauty of Japanese interiors. Expect to see natural wood textures, earthy tones, and organic materials, all meticulously selected to evoke a sense of groundedness. Raw, unpolished finishes and subtle asymmetry add character, embodying the Wabi Sabi essence of imperfection and impermanence.
2. A palette of serenity
The Finix store or booth is enveloped in a soothing colour palette that ignites a feeling of tranquillity. Think warm sand, muted greens, deep ocean blues and soft, neutral tones - each hue inspired by the landscapes of Southeast Asia's pristine beaches and Japan’s serene countryside. These colours are carefully chosen to create an atmosphere of peace, where visitors can step in and feel an immediate sense of ease.
3. Embracing the natural elements
Nature is at the core of the Bali Sabi experience. Wooden structures, stone textures, linen drapes, and woven rattan pieces come together to form a tactile space that invites touch and interaction. Plants and lush greenery further enhance the connection to nature, evoking the rejuvenating energy of a tropical retreat.
A reflection of our founder's personal journey
Bali Sabi is more than just a design philosophy - it is a mirror of Leonard’s own journey. Having lived and worked in Japan for several years, he found himself drawn to the Wabi Sabi way of thinking. It resonated deeply with his personal struggles - the relentless pursuit of perfection, the fear of never being ‘good enough,’ and ultimately, the realisation that beauty lies in imperfection. Bali Sabi is about letting go, embracing flaws, and finding peace in the present moment.
This philosophy extends into the Finix brand ethos. We don’t chase perfection; we celebrate authenticity. We create clothing and spaces that allow individuals to move, breathe, and exist as they are - without the weight of societal expectations.
Step into the Bali Sabi experience
Walking into a Finix store or booth should feel like a deep exhale - a moment of pause in a world that constantly demands more. It is a place to reconnect with yourself, to find solace in the imperfect, and to embrace the freedom of being unapologetically you.
Bali Sabi is not just a concept - it’s a way of life. A reminder that in the dance of imperfection and serenity, we find true beauty.
Welcome to the world of Bali Sabi. Welcome to Finix.