Typically, Aidilfitri is celebrated throughout the entire month of Syawal with continuous festivities. In gearing up for the celebration, many would typically shop for new Raya clothes.
Maneuvering through countless open houses during the festive period usually calls for a time to dress up for both men and women.
This is why Raya season is arguably one of the busiest periods in the local fashion calendar as local designers work hard to showcase their best Lebaran collections for customers who wish to flaunt their best outfits.
But amid Covid-19, the usual joyful Raya celebrations won't likely be celebrated in the same manner.
Balik kampung trips and big gatherings are not allowed even if the Movement Control Order (MCO) is lifted so that means open houses will have to wait.
This season, it's best to stay indoors, and that means we will have to celebrate Raya at home. Surely it will be a bittersweet experience to remember.
It's a personal choice, but splurging on fancy Raya outfits is deemed unnecessary for many shoppers in times of crisis like this. But there's nothing wrong with having the intention to dress in something new to welcome Syawal either.
In this challenging period, we could use a little pick-me-up to lift our spirits. Also, in the spirit of #kitajagakita, local fashion brands could use our support since we know that the fashion industry is greatly affected by the pandemic.
So what to wear when you're likely to celebrate Raya at home? Firstly, be practical. Opt for materials that are comfortable, breathable and outfits that can be repurposed.
For example, if you are looking at top and skirt ensembles, choose a no-frill design that can be worn again in different styles, like matching the top with pants on another occasion, or reusing the skirt to match a less formal shirt for a casual day out later.
There is a bevy of designs available in the market, but here is a list of suggestions for brands to check out this Raya.
POKOKS
This homegrown brand's Raya collection this year called the Oasis collection offers a little something for everyone in the family; from babies to kids, women and men.
Taken from their website, the brand's description for the collection is: "Like an oasis in the middle of the scorching heat of the desert. Lending a slight shimmer of hope, in which symbolise the hardships of life. An oasis reminds us of how much we need a shelter from the world. A place like our hometown."
The baby selection offers baju melayu jumpsuits and dungarees as well as baju kurung at RM89 or RM99 per piece. Boys have a choice of kurtas, sampin as well as baju Melayu and pants which can be bought separately.
Meanwhile, girls can choose from a range of umbrella skirts, godet skirts and blouses. As for the ladies, the collection offers belted skirts, a variety of blouses, umbrella skirts, godet skirts, and palazzo pants.
For men, plain and printed kurtas or a selection of baju melayu and instant samping can be found in this collection. All clothes in this collection are sold individually, and are designed to mix and match easily, making it easy for you to repurpose the outfit. Find out more about the collection at pokoks.com.
LILIT
Lilit's celebrates every woman in their unique way through its collection called Lilit Class of 2020. From plain ensembles to prints, the designs are simple, straight to the point yet chic and trendy. Check out the collection at fashionvalet.com
LUBNA
Lubna on Zalora offers dresses, tops, skirts and continues to include its plus size edit too for its Raya collection. With materials like polyester and rayon woven, the collection features a fun colour palette and prints but nothing over the top.
There's also something for the men – particularly its modern take of baju Melayu with teluk belanga neckline. It's slim fit, comes with front button and side zip fastening with two side pockets in a range of soft, pastel shades.
Discounts are offered on all pieces so check out the collection at Zalora.com.my.
SHALS
Shals' raya collection called Shaloma Raya is a range of traditional wear with a vintage twist.
Loose, airy tops can be worn as it is or tucked in matching skirts. Fabrics used range from cotton to chiffon. Check out the collection at shals.com.my.
KHATAM
For Raya 2020, men's attire brand Khatam restores one of its best collection called the Gandarus Series but offers new colours for tops and baju melayu teluk belanga.
Featuring a range of shades like blue, light beige, rustic red and midnight black, the pieces are known for its comfortable material which is made up of polyblend, rayon and spandex material. Find out more what Khatam has to offer at its website khatam.com.my.