How our favourite local fashion labels are leading the way in creating clothes that speak to the modern woman while preserving heritage and tradition
Over the last decade, we've seen the modestwear industry flourish in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It has been largely attributed to the growing digital economy and social media but a factor that is often overlooked is the talent of local designers and their innovations in the field, especially when it comes to formalwear and traditional garments.
They have skilfully updated the blueprint of modestwear and elevated the entire scene while staying true to the region's heritage and traditions. This phenomenon is most prominent during the festive season.
Tatler reaches out to Lubna and Raeesa, two Malaysian fashion brands beloved for their creative and quirky designs, on reinterpreting modestwear for the modern woman.
See also: Hari Raya 2022: 10 Most Stylish Fashion Collections by Malaysian Designers
Lúbna
"Lúbna has always been a fun, experimental brand," shares Shasha Ahmad, head of modestwear at the Malaysian fashion label. "Our brand aesthetic has always been playful and youthful. It can be a challenge to maintain tradition but it is essential, especially during Raya. We always try to find ways to add our modern take on the traditional silhouette with trendy prints and quirky details."
However, what stood out to us about its festive collection extends far beyond bright and beautiful colours. Its designs are created with comfort and movement in mind without sacrificing shape using clever techniques such as ruched details, side drapes cinched at the waists and flared hems. And it is committed to ensuring these designs cater to women of all sizes, a bold and refreshing move as other fashion brands around the world come under fire for offering watered down versions of their garments, if at all, to its plus size clientele.
See also: Hari Raya 2022: 8 Malaysian Fashion Collections for the Whole Family
Lúbna's Zaloraya fashion show perfectly captured its fun and forward-thinking approach to modest fashion, even going as far as sending some of their models down the runway in rollerskates and wave boards in a delightful showcase of its stylish yet comfortable garments.
