6 Malaysian labels you must check out for Hari Raya

Here are five local designer labels to check out for Aidilfitri.

Emel By Melinda Looi
Emel By Melinda Looi collaborates with local celebrities every year to create limited edition collections, raising awareness and promoting the spirit of giving. For Hari Raya, the label has released a line of baju kurung inspired by the sea.

The designs by Aishah Sinclair, Atilia Haron, Daphne Iking, Dynas Mokhtar, Serena C and Sazzy Falak, feature underwater-inspired prints in captivating colours. Each is said to reflect the diversity and tranquility of marine life.

Proceeds from the sales will be donated to Reef Check Malaysia. This will aid the organisation in coral conservation, with a special focus on educating school kids in both island communities and cities on the importance of marine conservation.

Innai Red
Innai Red’s festive collection for 2016 is inspired by the nouveau art and design movement. In this manner, it adheres to the very idea of escaping eclectic historical styles long popular in the past.

Structured pieces get a feminine, sophisticated treatment with lush sweet lace, 3D beading, flower embroidery and delicate fabrics. Most of the designs are made of separates. They work beautifully together, but can be worn alone to create different looks.

From sweet pastels to blush nudes and dark gemstone shades, the play of colour is varied but well thought out. Fabrics chosen are used and manipulated to subtly bring out the beauty of a wearer, as well.

Alia Bastamam
The Alia Bastamam Raya collection follows in the footsteps of the label’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection. Radiant, relaxed and cool, it presents an absolutely modern and gorgeous take on Saharan vibes.

Fabrics of satin and silk are light for a breezy appeal, with fluidity apparent in the delicate drapes and luxe layers. The attitude is casual but the look is sophisticated, making it a different take on the Hari Raya wardrobe.

“We made it very modern this season because fashion is so in the now,” explains Alia, adding, “It’s about making the classic new and bringing the contemporary into traditional culture. I’ve actually included a baju kurung bomber in the collection!”

Tsyahmi
In fusing modesty and modernity in women’s and men’s garments, Tsyahmi reinforces the role of traditional wear. Timeless colour palettes are seen complemented with exciting fabric play and everyday comfort.

Rich shades like gold and maroon are featured prominently. As are sombre hues of greys, browns and greens. Pastels add a sense of lightness to the designs, with pink, sea foam and baby blue bringing about a more festive feel.

Highlights include the “peek-a-boo” gold-thread embroidery of a Kelantanese infused pattern, plus detailing such as tulip sleeves and fan pleats. All of the outfits can be worn as separates to fit different occassions.

Rico Rinaldi
The Summeraya collection from Rico Rinaldi marries Malay and Japanese aesthetics. Whilst maintaining the basics of the baju kurung and kebaya, it also features design elements and silhouettes of the Japanese kimono.

The bespoke range presents an exciting collaboration with Tomita Senkogei. Tomita is said to be a respected Japanese artisan who works solely with traditional kimono fabrics, staying true to a heritage and process hundreds of years old.

A multitude of fabrics are used in the ready-to-wear designs. This makes them stylish yet comfortable, with cotton linen, stretchable cotton and printed chiffon accentuated using specially designed prints.

Jovian Mandagie
Aptly named Balik Kampung, Jovian Mandagie’s ready-to-wear collection makes use of different batiks and the pua kumbu, as well as contemporary fabrics suck as silk, chiffon, satin, crepe and lace.

It carries 32 designs for women and 20 for men which comprise various versions of the baju kurung and kebaya, plus jubah, kurta and baju melayu. Flower appliques, semi-Swarovski pearls, glass beads and embroidery add to the delight.

“The collection is described as traditional yet relevant to modern-day dressing and that is the inspiration behind this anticipated collection,” says Jovian.