Page 157 - Westport Guide To Malaysia

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA 149
A hand-loomed Kanjivaram
silk saree from Zobha Sarees. Traditionally made of cotton, the saree has evolved with the use of different fabrics, colours, patterns and decorations to keep pace with contemporary fashion.
embroidered and worn over loose or tight-fitting pants.
The look is completed with a light shawl flung around the shoulders.
For special occasions and festivals, the local Chinese community favours the evergreen cheongsam (or qipao), often made from gorgeous brocaded silks. Classy yet sexy with its
high Mandarin collar and form-fitting shape, the cheongsam can be knee, three-quarter or ankle length. A more casual and practical design is the samfu, a two-piece unisex suit comprising a short, waist- or hip-length blouse with straight cut pants, often favoured by the young for special occasions.
Malaysian men are experts at combining elegant western suits with ethnic headgear, such as a songkok (if Malay) or a turban (if Sikh). Colonial influence lingers in the
form of the short-sleeved bush jacket, worn as part of a practical two-piece suit by senior civil servants and politicians. Almost every male owns a few colourful batik shirts, something of a misnomer as many variants are printed or embroidered.
They are usually long- sleeved without external pockets, quite different
to the Indonesian style. Despite their bright primary colours, they are regarded as ideal formal wear, so the men are often as colourful as the ladies at Malaysian social gatherings.
The ultra-formal baju Melayu comprises a loosely cut, long-sleeved, bright primary or vibrant pastel coloured two-piece pyjama suit in silk or fine satin. Set off by a stunning knee- length songket (brocade sarong), it is worn mainly by Muslim men at religious holidays such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and by VIPs and dignitaries on
occasions of
state, set off
by a songkok
hat or even a
geometrically
folded turban
(tengkolok)
for persons
of rank.
Doublewoot is a Malaysian online retailer focusing on women’s casual apparel inspired by traditional themes. This cheongsam design incorporating printed batik motifs is a typical example.
departmental stores. Most Malaysians prefer their own favourite tailors or dressmakers for their special outfits. Visitors should ask for recommendations.
The indigenous communities of East
Men’s baju Melayu and women’s baju kurung or kebaya are relatively hard to
find in
Traditional Malay festive garments from Shawlpublika fashion. The man and boy wear baju Melayu pyjama suits with songket waist sarongs while the woman wears a classic baju kurung ensemble.