ASIAN-AMERICAN designers are sizzling hot.

That is the resounding verdict from The White House and the world over.

And leading the charge is young Taiwan-born, Manhattan- based designer Jason Wu.

He was propelled to global fame after First Lady Michelle Obama wore one of his creations at the first of 10 inauguration balls in January.

So, what’s behind the rise of these new Asian-American designers?

For a start, they share a common trait: a “respect for formality and a dislike for vulgarity”, says Thai-American designer Thakoon Panichgul.

He is among the few designers whose threads have been picked by Mrs Obama.

Ms Suzy Menkes, the fashion editor of International Herald Tribune, wonders whether “there is something in the soul of Asian designers that makes them create clothes that are particularly suited to such a lively and intelligent First Lady”.

Korean-American designer Richard Chai believes “there is something stark and pure about Asian culture...that binds Asian designers together”.

“There is this real contrast of old-world history and hypermodern technology,” he says.

Singapore fashion stylist Steven Kong notes that these designers are Westernised and do not go for cliched Asian motifs such as dragons.

As for why Mrs Obama chose Wu’s design, he thinks it’s because she “prefers to wear less-established designers, for a more unique style”.

“As a stylist, I personally scout for clothes from new and rising designers, so I understand that,” he says.

For more my paper stories click here.