Fashion

11 Malaysian brands to look at for alternative ‘baju Raya’

20.04.2021

By Stephanie Boey

11 Malaysian brands to look at for alternative ‘baju Raya’
A change in times calls for a change in perspective, and a new look for Hari Raya 2021

Raya is going to be celebrated very differently this year! We may possibly have to forgo the regular celebrations and long list of rumah terbuka that we’re so used to. But look on the bright side, it’s going to be one to remember for years to come. Living in this New Normal is definitely breaking convention (pretty sure there’s an oxymoron in here somewhere!), and celebrating Hari Raya while social distancing will be a challenge. However, the way we see it, you can use this opportunity to switch it up this year.

In the spirit of breaking tradition, we’ve rounded up ten Malaysian fashion brands that will satiate your need for the unique and unfamiliar. During this time where our lives have become a stringent routine, perhaps a fashion fix can freshen things up. Below, you can find modern alternatives to dress up in, plus traditional silhouettes…with a twist. Head’s up to the goth crew, would you celebrate Hari Raya in a baju kurung that’s black? Or perhaps matching your baju Melayu to your face mask?

Anaabu

 

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Anaabu creates minimalistic baju Raya to be worn in the New Normal. The neutral palette is a refreshing take on the festive wear, with traditional Malaysian silhouettes that we’re used to, like the Kurung Kedah, the Kurta, and Kebaya cut from textured cotton in ecru shades. Its 2021 collection, titled ‘Rindu’, features 25 looks that pay homage to the founder’s childhood days back in the ’90s.

Shop the collection here.

Behati

 

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How does a hype Hari Raya sound? This relatively new Malaysian label successfully blends meme culture with fashion. Their Raya 2019 campaign remains to be so iconic it continues to be recreated to this day. This year, aside from its signature oversized pieces in bright neon hues, there’s also the Baju Melayu Pendek, the Jubah Wira, and their take on Baju Kebaya in the mix.

Shop the collection here.

Whimsigirl

 

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Whimsigirl has always aimed to cater to the everyday women, and for Raya 2021, it’s no different. From Baju Kebaya and Kurung Kedah to pieces that strike the right balance between modern and traditional, the ‘Rasa Sayang’ collection has them all, and they’re available in a wide range of colours and prints.

Shop the collection here.

Alia B. x Naelofar

 

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Alia B. has teamed up with another local powerhouse Naelofar for Hari Raya 2021. Dubbed ‘The Essence of Art Nouveau’, the collection is the epitome of femininity as the looks radiate a romantic flair. Graceful drapes and delicate cuts lend the colourful ensembles an eye-catching finish.

Shop the collection here.

Fern

 

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Founder Fern Chua has always looked to nature’s beauty as her inspiration for her collections. For Raya this year, the spotlight’s on orchid, as the petals and the colours of flower served as the main inspiration behind the looks. Be it subtle detailing at the hemline or larger-than-life prints in contrasting tones, the blooms are complemented with ruffles, pleats, and drapes.

Shop the collection here.

Related: Inside the Atelier with Fern

Hanya

 

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For its Raya 2021 collection, Hanya collaborated with local brand Fuzana Mokhtaza on a collection of Baju Kurungs. Introduced in mostly muted hues, the looks exude a sense of comfort, femininity, and ease. In conjunction with the launch, the team has released a series of fun yet relatable video series on Instagram. Watch them here.

Shop the collection here.

Umma

 

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Umma’s tagline is ‘Modern and Modest’, and we can safely say that the Malaysian brand is slaying it. The designs—featuring its signature muted colourways and hand-drawn motifs—emphasise comfort and style. This year, the Alun collection is named after the waves and scallop detailing that can be found throughout the line.

Shop the collection here.

Zalora

 

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Looking for more options? Zalora’s the one-stop-shop for all your Raya fashion needs. Some of the brands that are available on the site include Ezzati Amira, FK by Farah Khan, NH by Nurita Harith, Petra, Yadotsa, and more. Aside from that, the e-retailer is also launching its first collaborative collection with Pieces by Raeesa, and a sustainable modestwear line with Earth by Zalia Basics.

Shop the collection here.

Shals

 

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Local fashion label Shals is dedicating its Raya 2021 collection to women of different sizes, ages, and styles. The ‘She Raya’ collection is made up of 20 looks that include the classic Kurung Kedah and Kebarung, along with comfy Kurung and Kaftan. For those who are looking for something more modern, a pantsuit design is also available.

Shop the collection here.

Larney

 

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Titled ‘Into the Light’, Larney’s 2021 Raya collection aims to spread a message of optimism and hope. The 20 new designs cater to a wide range of styles, from refined kaftans to head-turning tulle baju Kurungs.

Shop the collection here.

Auri

 

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Last but not least, Auri’s Raya 2021 collection is made for minimalists. Comprising two Baju Kurung sets in checkered and striped prints, the pieces can be mixed and matched to maximise its versatility.

Shop the collection here.

For more Raya-related stories, click here.

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