Batik the trend for this Raya
Retro-style baju kurung making a comeback
GEORGE TOWN: Batik designs may be a thing of the past but they have become a preferred choice when it comes to female apparel for Hari Raya this year.
Boutique assistant Maizara Abu Bakar, 41, said with retro-style Raya apparel making a comeback this year, batik designs have become a trend among women for the coming celebration.
“Batik designs used to be the “in” thing in the past. This year, they have become the preferred choice once again.
“Our customers look for outfits with batik designs and most of them prefer A-line skirts.
“Peplum and pareo skirts are also in high demand as customers get to pair them with different tops for various occasions,” she said when met at a boutique in Komtar here on Wednesday.
Maizara said the trend last year was lace-inspired designs.
“This year, we have baju kurung Kedah, baju kurung moden and baju kebaya, which are all made from batik cloth.
“Our batik baju kurung is popular among our customers as it is of good quality and adorned with attractive designs.
“The prices of our apparel are also reasonable as they are made locally,” she added.
Maizara said apparel made from cotton was also popular this year.
She said popular pieces include cotton baju kurung imported from Korea and Vietnam.
“Our cotton baju kurung is suitable for our warm weather and requires no ironing,” she said.
Maizara, however, said business was slower than usual this year as customers preferred to buy their Raya apparel through online platforms.
“We are facing tight competition as the younger generation prefer to compare and buy their clothes online.
“I believe business will pick up two weeks before Hari Raya,” she said, adding that discounts will be given to customers who buy in bulk.