Designs from left: Mimpikita, Bernard Chandran and Khoon Hooi.
From a reimagined kurung with a vintage touch to an updated version of kebaya laced with satin and silk taffeta, the vibrant collections for Raya this year summon the festive spirit by putting a fun and glitzy spin on traditional Malay attire. We’ve picked some of our favourite pieces that look anything but typical.
Theme: Bollywood dreams
Rizalman for Zalora
Taking inspiration from the glitz and glamour of Bollywood style, Rizalman’s collection for Zalora features deep colours and rich embellishments that make for a very rich Raya outfit indeed. Our favourite is this particular piece in black, which pairs a maxi skirt and a high-necked blouse in embroidered chiffon.
Theme: Flirty and feminine
Mimpikita
Mimpikita’s design team has revived their iconic Petra print for this modern and thoroughly feminine baju kurung. A mermaid skirt with pleats at the back is paired with a relaxed fit top in baby blue, which is finished with ruffled sleeves and an elegant, longer hem at the back.
Theme: Vintage glam
Bernard Chandran
Taking inspiration from the glossy Parisian nights of the 70s, Datuk Bernard Chandran’s Petang Raya collection includes strikingly glamorous kurungs seen in a number of vintage overtures, designed using a variety of techniques like pleating, ribbing and weaving to give structural levels to each creation.
Theme: Classic and timeless
Khoon Hooi
Inspired by the classic traditional wear found in his grandmother’s closet, the beautiful kebaya – timeless and alluring – takes centre stage in Khoon Hooi’s 2018 Raya collection. The designer approaches the collection with a nostalgic sentiment and a modern flourish as seen in this combo (pictured on the left) of a short kebaya with lace detailing and an orange, candy stripe sarong.
Theme: Clean silhouettes
Cassey Gan
A contemporary take on the traditional baju kurung, this piece features a structured silhouette with clean lines and the designer’s signature layering to create designs. Playing with shapes and texture of fabrics, this two-piece outfit is modern and edgy, offering a refreshing take on festive wear this Raya.
Theme: Traditional with an edge
Jovian Mandagie
It's hard to go wrong with the timeless baju Melayu and this one in a vibrant hue of brown features a pleated design on its Cekak Musang neckline. Make the look yours by matching it with a sampin made from either luxurious songket or silk.
