The baju kurung has never gone out of style. It is a favourite, worn as everyday wear – as well as the go-to for dressier occasions.
What is Hari Raya, if not a time for women here to bring out their best and most gorgeous baju kurung?
The traditional dress is well-loved for being easy to wear. It is versatile and can be mixed and matched with various accessories to suit different styles.
Read more: Dutch designer under fire for wanting ‘to see Malays dress beautiful again’
In terms of it being timeless, local designers have always returned to the design. Of course, they made it their own with small tweaks or creative updates.
The addition of peplums or cinched at the waist with a belt, for example. Or maybe oversize puff sleeves? But the silhouette always remains identifiable.
Proving that Malaysians (yes, Malaysians!) do indeed dress beautifully, here's a look at a few recognisable names in the local fashion industry and their baju kurung designs.
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In terms of the baju kurung being timeless, local designers have always returned to the design. Shown here are past creations by Nurita Harith, Alia Bastamam and Khoon Hooi. Photo composite: Filepic
Nurita Harith has always had a penchant for more romantic designs. Her baju kurung has a softer look and feel, combining femininity with quiet grace.
Photo composite: Filepic
Coming from a mixed heritage, Syomirizwa Gupta likes to celebrate diversity. His design incorporates lots of colour – a reflection of how he sees the world should be.
Photo composite: Filepic
Melinda Looi is known for her avant-garde creations. She plays around with form factor for the baju kurung, making them fun and playful.
Photo composite: Filepic
If there is one thing that Datuk Seri Bernard Chandran is known for, it is his dramatic designs. So you can expect a more modern baju kurung from him, with large embellishments.
Photo composite: Filepic
Alia Bastamam likes going back to the basics when dressing women. With subtle prints and nuances of design work, she evokes a demure kind of beauty.
Photo composite: Filepic
Khoon Hooi never turns his back on classic designs. He sees timelessness as something to be celebrated in fashion.
Photo composite: Filepic
Young and free to explore, Rico Rinaldi likes to push boundaries with the use of slightly more unconventional prints. Hence, the patchwork baju kurung in all its glory.
Photo composite: Filepic
