She actually interned with well-known Indonesian designer Anne Avantie, and learnt all about the proper structure of the kebaya and how important it was to have the correct fit and undergarments.
"I'm very meticulous when it comes to bridal wear. I never thought people would actually dare order online. I have a standard order pack. I have visuals, colour charts and I ask a lot of questions so I can understand their taste. After that, I need a picture of them so I can create a design. I will also choose the fabric and do the beadwork. In terms of fit, I look at the height, body shape and weight. After years of experience, I can tell from the measurements what style would best suit a person."
Her forte is the applique. It's lace with any kind of pattern and she embellishes them in different styles, preferring the use of semi-precious stones. She also chooses the colours. She applies these appliques of beadwork and lace to make the outfit unique.
If you're not happy with the product, you can send it back for alterations - there's a 20% discount for that.
Alin advises clients to go to a professional seamstress beforehand, to get their exact body measurements.
While Chantiq Skaly is the bridal range, the style is always kebaya. Think custom-made kebayas with embellishments, and in short or long versions. Her customers have asked for bags to go with the outfits, which has led to vintage clutches (ChantiqChantiq Purse), veils (Maharani) and shoes (Alin Anuar Couture Shoe) so the brands all complement each other.
Alin is also a certified wedding planner. In 2008, her services expanded to include wedding planning and consultancy services, so it's a one-stop centre for brides.
The multi-talented businesswoman has a showroom in Malaysia, an office in Singapore and a studio in Jakarta.
In Jakarta, boutique owners use her workshop facilities to make their clothes. Alin says she's had years to build her business, so her current focus is on maintaining it: "I want to move away from being a designer and be known as an entrepreneur."
Last year, she showcased her 10th anniversary kebaya collection at the Malaysia International Fashion Week. For someone who started at the tender age of 21, she's certainly come a long way.
Her website (asianatelier.com) has been revamped. As for her customers, they are in the younger age range, as these tend to be the people who order online.
She handles the business with help from her sisters. Alin spends a lot of time travelling to Jakarta and Singapore.
"My family is my inspiration, I've always been the one who wants to look after everyone. My intention was to have a business that my sisters can go into it in the future."
Alin says it helps to have an understanding husband who's used to her work schedule. Apart from her business, she has set up the Anuar Anis Foundation, named after her late father. A fixed amount from whatever she makes goes to various charitable instituitions.
Believe it or not, everything she creates is sold online, and Alin is happy to keep it that way. And why not? It makes perfect business sense to expand online and reach a wider international clientele, and that's exactly what Alin has done to great success.
