Fashion Forward: Where to Find Conservative Women’s Clothes in KL
In a city as dynamic and culturally diverse as Kuala Lumpur, fashion serves as a mirror that reflects its energy and rich culture. When it comes to women’s fashion, traditional modesty seamlessly blends with contemporary style, allowing women to showcase graceful and elegant looks. These ensembles often incorporate intricate patterns and fabrics while adhering to the practice of covering shoulders and knees, particularly important when visiting religious sites.
Women’s clothing in Kuala Lumpur typically features lightweight and breathable fabrics, with elements such as the sarong and batik prints adding a distinct local flair. Aside from traditional stores, local designers have also made it their mission to modernize traditional clothing, drawing inspiration from Malaysia’s cultural heritage.
If you’re looking to update your wardrobe, we’ve listed shops you can visit for traditional clothes. Fancy adding a twist to traditional apparel? There are also shops that specialize in elevated traditional pieces worth exploring.
TOPGIRL
A homegrown modest fashion brand, TOPGIRL has been in the business since 1989, offering a variety of products from casual wear to office wear. The brand is committed to “enriching the lives of modest-style women” with high quality yet affordable clothing. Aside from regularly launching collections, they also have a plus-size collection as well to cater to a wider audience.
Prices of lovely sets in varying colors start at RM189 while blouses are available at less than RM100. Meanwhile, stretchable skirts are available at RM39.90, and pants are priced at less than RM80. You can conveniently shop these pieces online or visit the store at Semua House.
Location: TOPGIRL, L1-12, 1st Floor, Semua House, Shopping Centre, Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur
Andaaz Fashion
An ethnic store offering rare collections of traditional Indian dresses, Andaaz Fashion is considered a trendsetter when it comes to ethnic wear. Here, you’ll find clothes made by seasoned designers and experienced embroiders and tailors. According to their website, they want to prove that traditional ethnic wear can bring out a woman’s magnificence.
One of the store’s most important collections is the Saree (Sari). This garment is available in different fabrics, styles, and patterns such as the Banarasi saree, silk saree, and Kotra saree, among others. The sarees are also available according to occasion like wedding, party, festival, and bridal. The Andaaz Fashion online store also offers items for Men and Kids.
Location: Andaaz Fashion, UG 07 (C), Ground Floor, Kompleks Wilayah, 2, Jalan Dang Wangi, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
FERN
Known for its captivating designs and vibrant colors, Batik is a traditional craft and timeless fashion statement embraced in Kuala Lumpur. Understanding this significance, FERN, a sustainable luxury Malaysian resort wear brand, was formed not only to celebrate Batik but to rediscover its aesthetic significance as well.
Browse through FERN’s Lookbook and fall in love with how they fuse handcrafted batik with modern designs. Its latest Raya Collection for 2024, the Wau Series, is a sight to behold. It pays homage to Malaysia’s wau (traditional kite) by showcasing vibrant colors, bold shapes, and intricate designs. Each piece highlights Malaysian culture, combining artistry with style.
Shop online or follow FERN on Facebook and Instagram
ANAABU
A Malaysian unisex clothing brand, ANAABU offers a variety of items catering to women, men, and children. The pieces have minimalist and rustic touches, ideal for everyday wear or when stepping out for special occasions.
Some of the pieces that caught our eye include the embroidered Mekar Loose Kebaya (RM269), Mekar Wrapped Sarung (RM199), and the Terbit Loose Kurung Top (RM289). Some of the items get sold out quickly so make sure you follow them on Instagram for restock announcements.
Location: ANAABU, 13, Jln Sin Chew Kee, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
VARIANTE
VARIANTE is a Malaysian brand that embraces style, sophistication, and elegance. Under VARIANTE are two labels: VARIANTE, a ready-to-wear label showcasing casual wear for the modern and empowered woman; and VARIYAN, a label that focuses on high-end couture collections.
Some of the items worth checking out include blouses, dresses, skirts, and pants available in different colors and patterns. Those who love solid colors will gravitate towards the Safia Shirt Blouse and Pants Suit (RM259), available in green, orange, and fuchsia. Need to step up your style game? The Ikat Printed Dresses and Blouses (RM299 and RM159, respectively) are also worth exploring. Browse the rest of the items and add them to your cart today if you prefer shopping online.
Location: VARIANTE, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang
UMMA
More than just a clothing brand, UMMA takes pride in being a movement that celebrates the fusion of modernity, modesty, and essential design. UMMA offers a fresh perspective on modern and modest fashion without compromising style. Its extensive collection features scarves, traditional wear, and accessories.
Dresses are available in different designs and colors such as the Deema Jubah Dress Robe (RM49) and the Tessa Floret in Yellow (RM50). You can also explore other collections for women’s clothing such as Kacukan Women, Modern Kurung, and Pants. There are also sets and co-ords available priced at less than RM100. Aside from visiting the physical stores, you can also shop online.
Location: UMMA, Second Floor Isetan, KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
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