Hari Raya Fashion Trends | Then and Now

Hari Raya outfits have changed tremendously throughout the years. Nonetheless, it never fails to embrace festive vibes of Hari Raya!

Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Raya Aidilfitri is celebrated on the tenth month (Syawal) in the Islamic calendar, which comes right after the fasting month (Ramadan). In this time of year, our Muslim friends – including me, would visit relatives and seek forgiveness. Let’s not forget the delicious food we indulge in when we are out visiting. Rendang, ketupat, lemak lodeh, these are just a few of my favourite Hari Raya dishes.

Let’s talk fashion. I have to admit, it has changed so much throughout the years. Baju kurung, baju kebaya, abaya, so many! It can be really stressful choosing the perfect clothing for this time of year! There are countless of outfits to choose from when it comes to looking beautiful on this special day. The costumes worn during Hari Raya has evolved through the years. Let’s look back at the past and compare them to the ones worn now!

Then (Men)

Back in the day, Malay men would dress in baju Melayu, which is a long-sleeve, loose-fitted shirt, paired with long pants, kain samping and a songkok.

This was worn by most Malay men during Hari Raya. Not only does it look simple and true to the Malay culture, but it also makes them appear sophisticated and modest. It really embraces the rich essence of the Malay culture.

Then (Women)

Malay women on the other hand, would dress in baju kurung which is a long-sleeve, loose-fitted two-piece outfit, consisting of a blouse and skirt or kain.

There are several variations of the baju kurung, each having its unique style. Though they are different in one way or another, the baju kurung remains the top pick of women during Hari Raya as it represents beauty and modesty.

These are the traditional costumes worn during Hari Raya in the past, but how has it evolved in terms of style, colour and how it is worn today?

Now (Men)

There are several types of outfits worn by men during Hari Raya today. One of which is a kurta. This outfit is a loose collarless shirt than can be paired with any long pants. Talk about versatility, a kurta is often worn by the current generation as it is way easier and does not need to be paired with a kain samping for the outfit to look good.

Jovian Men Qamar Jubah on ShopperBoard. (n.d.). ShopperBoard. Retrieved April 26, 2021, from

Another option is a jubah which is a full-length cloak traditionally worn by men in Arab countries. Today, it is worn by men in Singapore during Hari Raya.

Now (Women)

Okay, this needs a whole wardrobe honestly, because there are so many different styles when it comes to Hari Raya clothes for women. Let’s start with the classic, shall we?

We all know baju kurung is the traditional costume for Hari Ray worn by women, but there are actually so many variations of the baju kurung. Kurung Kedah, Pahang, and modern, I am just naming a few. These baju kurung are differentiated by their style.

Baju kurung Kedah is influenced by Siamese culture. The blouse is similar to the Siamese short blouse, shorter than the normal baju kurung. Baju kurung Pahang on the other hand, is A-lined bloused paired with its matching skirt or kain. Baju kurung modern as the name suggest, is a modernised baju kurung, in terms of patterns and colours.

Another type of clothing normally worn during Hari Raya is an abaya which is a loose-fitted full length robe, normally worn by Muslim sisters who wear the hijab as it brings out modesty and poise. Modest dresses are also often worn during Hari Raya – it is actually what I am wearing this year!

Though there have been several changes made to the type of clothing we wear during Hari Raya, the rich culture and tradition shines through regardless. It is like a fashion show to me! Everyone brings a different style to the table and they look amazing!

Fashion evolves all the time, but it is important to know where is came from and the significance behind the clothes we wear. Now that you know more about them, share them with you friends and family too!