40 chic and timeless Hari Raya fits for the fashion girlies

Just like that, the first week of Ramadan, a holy month where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, has passed in a flash. 

For the modern career woman who’s balancing work with eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep, racking your brain for what to wear during the festive season might rank low on your list of priorities or slip your mind altogether. 

We think you deserve to look and feel good for Hari Raya, so we’ve rounded up some of the best modest pieces to wear for the upcoming celebrations and gatherings. 

Don’t know whether to choose a kebaya or a kurung? Scroll ahead to learn the difference and be spoilt for choice.

Baju Kurung

When you think of baju kurung, you’re probably picturing the traditional Baju Kurung Pesak, a comfy loose-fitting ensemble with a straight-cut, knee-length top and matching straight-cut skirt. It’s timeless and effortlessly chic, just like the ones below.

Cerulean Poppy Kurung, $139, Katt & Co

Marissa Kurung in Sunbeam, $139, Elda

But did you know that there’s different versions of this classic ensemble?

Baju Kurung Kedah

The Baju Kurung Kedah features a shorter top that ends at the hips. Pair it with a straight-cut skirt for a traditional look or switch things up with flare pants for a fun, festive office look. 

Zeyta Puffy Kurung Kedah in Green, $114.55, Petra

Jezmine Cotton Lace Kurung Kedah, $111.53, Petra

Hera Ramie Beaded Blouse in Jade, $185, Whimisgirl

Suria Kedah Top (Black embroided), $60.15, ANAABU

Traditionalist Kedah Set in Pink Floral, $122, Whimsigirl

Baju Kurung Modern

If you like a tighter fit, the Baju Kurung Modern is your go-to! This fresh take on the classic, loose blouse features a slimmer, tailored fit with all the trendy details you crave.

There is no single “Baju Kurung Modern” look and nowadays, you can find a ton of styles online to match your vibe. 

SOUL Modern Kurung in Rouge, $181.04, Hani Mokhta

Qalista Lace Kurung in Light Yellow, $87.90, Lubna from Zalora

Nikita Cotton Pleated Modern Kurung in Purple, $96.42, Petra

Romana Kurung, $188.99, NH by Nurita Harith from Zalora

Dafne Kurung, $247.90, NH by Nurita Harith from Zalora

Gisele Kurung, $181.90, Alia B from Zalora

Kebaya

Classic, elegant, and oh-so-flattering, the form-fitting kebaya blouse is a showstopper, typically crafted from delicate fabrics like lace and chiffon and sprinkled with embroidery or beadwork. For the ultimate traditional look, pair it with a gorgeous batik skirt.

Semarak Embroidery Kebaya Baby Blue, $150, Senja Studio

Kebaya Razor in Silver Songket, $300.95, BEHATI

Tian Kebaya Top (Sunset Red), $90.37, ANAABU

SOUL Organza Kebaya Set in Clove, $181.04, Hani Mokhta

Blush, $150, With Anda

Sunset Dahlia Kebaya, $139, Katt & Co

Kebaya Kota Baru

Unlike other kebayas, the Kebaya Kota Baru comes with a unique twist; an extra piece of fabric, the lidah baju or tongue of the blouse, that ties the front together. With its flattering square neckline, you won’t need a kerongsang, or decorative brooch, to help fasten your kebaya top. 

Maria Kebaya, $214.50, Rumah Hartiqa

Gelora in Black, $117.57, Tujoh Kuntom

PALONG Kebaya Pendek in Stripe Beige, $81.30, Khatam

Antoinette Kebaya, $183.90, Syomirizwa Gupta from Zalora

Kebaya Janggan

The Kebaya Janggan flaunts a high collar, reminiscent of the chic cheongsam, wrapping around the neck with grace. This slim and fitted beauty is typically made with tougher fabrics.

Kebaya Janggan Top (Brown Plaid), $120.59, BEHATI

Kaseh Kebaya Set, $103.90, Zalia from Zalora

Nyonya Kebaya 

If you love bright and colourful florals, the Nyonya Kebaya is perfect for you. Featuring a sheer tighter-fitting blouse with intricate floral embroidery, you’re a guaranteed head-turner when you pair this top with a matching batik sarong.

Peacocks & Blossoms Nyonya Kebaya in Navy, $69.90, Faire Belle

Timeless Tsubaki Embroidery Nyonya Kebaya in Wispy White, $69.90, Faire Belle

Baju Kebarung

Can’t decide between a kebaya and a baju kurung? Get the best of both worlds with the Kebarung! A perfect hybrid, it blends the baju kurung’s length and silhouette with the kebaya’s V-neck and front-open style.

The Mimpian Women Kebarung Top in Whimsy, $42.01, Pokoks

Kebarung Moden WARDAH in 05-01 BLK, $141.75, TheaKL

Kaftans and abayas

We get it, all the good food from visiting relatives might leave you feeling bloated. If you’re looking for a looser option that can hide your food baby, try the figure forgiving abayas or kaftans. These are different variations of full-length, robe-like dresses that can keep you comfy and cool all day long.

HENNAH, $149, SALEHABAGAS

Sama Front Button Kaftan, $119.90, TAS by Tom Abang Saufi from Zalora

Ammara Abaya in Beige Pink, $300, By Marlena

Chain-detail Kaftan Dress, $79.90, H&M

Silk Kaftan Dress in Azure, $283.66, Esmé New York

Modest wear with a twist

If you’re not really feeling traditional wear but still want to look festive for gatherings, here are some modest options that won’t make your mother give you the side-eye.

Raya Oversized Longsleeves Dress in Black, $44, YESTODAY Studios

Blue Layer Tulle Maxi Skirt, $160, SANJE

Aero Midi Dress, $507.23, Rixo

Ruffle Sleeve Satin Dress, $99.90, H&M

KEISHA, $167, SALEHABAGAS

BELLE, $342, SALEHABAGAS