Get Raya Ready With These Contemporary Looks

In a blink of an eye, May has flown by, and we’re just a week away from… you guessed it — Hari Raya! The end of the month-long fast, calls for good food, family reunions and of course, sets of new clothes to don yourself with to celebrate the momentous occasion! In the past, Raya clothes came in all sorts of colours and styles, which were, in my opinion, pretty basic to begin with. But over the years, the traditional style of dressing has taken a different twist — with more modern iterations to its look than the former. Think — asymmetrical silhouettes, brighter pops of colours, and variety of textures that you can mix and match with!

With the plethora of options to choose from, finding the perfect outfit to impress everyone at the table (especially the relatives whom you haven’t met in ages) is of paramount importance. But first of all, where do we even begin?! With just a week away from the big occasion, here are some of the latest contemporary looks for you to consider this Hari Raya.

KAFTAN

Pomelo Maxi Loose Paisley Print Dress – Black, $59. Available online at Pomelo

Throwing together an outfit with minimal effort requires working with the right pieces. For an effortlessly chic option, enter Pomelo’s Maxi Loose Paisley Print Dress. The maxi fit immediately offers a feminine, pulled-together look and is the perfect go-to option when you need to rush out of your house within minutes!

Zalia Lace Kaftan Dress, $47.90 (U.P. $99.90). Available online at Zalora

For something that’s more seasonally appropriate, go for brighter colours just like this yellow kaftan ensemble. What’s great about this piece is that it cinches around your waist for a more feminine silhouette (and more importantly, it helps define your waist!)

H&M Limited Edition Raya Collection, $119 (left), $109 (right). Available at H&M Orchard Building as well as online at hm.com.

H&M is also taking things up a notch this festive season with a modern take to your usual kaftan silhouettes. The brand has launched its limited edition collection, featuring brand new designs and a brighter colour palette — peep the kaftan in this year’s Pantone Colour of the Year — living coral!

ASYMMETRICAL BAJU KURUNG

Justin Yap Collection Begonia Belted Asymmetrical Kurung, $104.90 (U.P. $173.90). Available online at Zalora.

When it comes to modest wear, choosing the right pieces that complement your body shape is key. In this case, the signature asymmetrical panelling and cinched-waist wraps. It may look a little too basic for some, but sometimes a minimalist approach to your look would do you good. For instance, this signature pairing from Justin Yap’s collection.

Lubna Draped Kurung Set, $79.90. Available online at Zalora

This lovely peach ensemble features a peplum design that flatters the waist and a subtle mermaid style that exudes feminity and sophistication. If you like something that’s stylish, and yet traditional then we’ve found your perfect match.

PEPLUM SLEEVED TOPS

Pomelo Satin Flared Sleeves Top in Orange. Available online at Pomelo.

Not into dresses? We’ve got you sorted. Peplum sleeves may have been a thing of the past but it’s back — and we’re not complaining. Pair this silky number with a pair of trousers, or you could even ditch the basics for a printed pair to spruce up your look.

MAXI

Pomelo Maxi Drape Slit Sleeve Dress in Pink, $64. Available online at Pomelo.

The perennial issue of buying clothes for occasions like these would be the concern of wearing it again. Instead of splurging on a piece that you’ll only wear once, try going for something that’s more classy, feminine and something that’s wearable for your other formal occasions! This silky pink number works perfectly well for Hari Raya or even for a romantic dinner date out (whenever the occasion arises).

KIMONO

Lilit Kimono Outer (Brick), RM269.00. Available online at Anaabu

Bored of wearing the same thing for Hari Raya? We feel you. Switch up your wardrobe with this capsule piece by Anaabu.

Sure, you may look like “Rey” from Episode 7 of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but it isn’t all that much of a bad thing now isn’t it? It’s chic, unique, and you can trade it as a functional piece to your wardrobe for everyday wear too! Besides, now you won’t have to worry about wearing the same outfit as someone else at your gatherings… we hope.


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