By Puteri Othman
We have now entered the last 10 days of Ramadan, which means the fasting month is almost coming to an end. It is sad to know that this holy month of Ramadan is at the grand finale, nevertheless, Eidil Fitri is just around the corner. Frankly speaking, if Raya festive season does not make you feel even a bit excited, I am not so sure what will.
With the coming festive season of Eidil Fitri, people have started to brace themselves for the occasion. Some have prepared for Raya celebration a few months ago, but those who have very hectic schedules to attend to, might only have time to prepare at the eleventh hour. Due to that, shopping malls are now filled with customers from morning to evening, and as for the entrepreneurs, it’s a golden opportunity for them to sell their products and make some profits. It is no surprise that as Eidil Fitri comes nearer, Ramadan has become a peak time to buy baju raya (festive clothing).
I have to admit, as a woman, it is very difficult to make a decision on the baju raya as there are countless number of beautiful clothing to pick from. The price range is quite reasonable but the most important consideration in choosing a baju raya is comfortable wearing, and having it in style.
So, in preparation for Raya celebration this year I have come out with a suggestion. If you still have difficulty to decide, how about wearing our traditional clothing, the popular baju kurung?
I am pretty sure you would look more elegant, beautiful and graceful in our own traditional dress. But baju kurung too has come in different types and styles: Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga, Baju Kurung Cekak Musang, Baju Kurung Kedah, Baju Kurung Pahang and Baju Kurung Moden.
Let’s examine the different baju kurung and their different styles.
Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga
Historically, Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga was introduced during the reign of Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar (the first Sultan of Modern Johor and the 21st Sultan of Johor) during his stay in a place called Teluk Belanga in Singapore. The baju kurung is designed to show modesty and comfort for the wearer. Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga is basically a loose-fitting full-length dress consisting of a skirt and a blouse. This type of baju kurung has no collar and the neckline is stitched in the style known as “tulang belut”. The skirt is designed with folding on one side. Nowadays, modifications have been made so as to be in compatible with current trend.
Baju Kurung Cekak Musang
Baju Kurung Cekak Musang is very similar to Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga. The only difference between the two baju kurung is the collar. Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga is known to be collarless but for Baju Kurung Cekak Musang, it is designed with a collar. The collar is placed vertically at the front of the blouse with the measurement of the width of a finger. A sequence of button specifically known as Butang Emas or Emas Berbatu Permata is placed on top of the collar. It is believed that the cutting of the design is based on the influence of both India and China.
Baju Kurung Kedah
Traditionally, Baju Kurung Kedah is said to be originated from southern Thailand which is situated close to one of the states in Malaysia, Kedah. It was later adapted as their daily clothing. Baju Kurung Kedah is designed to have a shorter length blouse compared to the previous baju kurung. Other than that, in order to expose even more the uniqueness of Baju Kurung Kedah, the collar of the blouse can be altered according to the taste of the wearer. Despite the differences, Baju Kurung Kedah still maintains the modesty of the user.
Baju Kurung Pahang
Baju Kurung Pahang, also known as Baju Kurung Pahang Riau, reveals the history between Riau and the state of Pahang. People often get confused between Baju Kurung Pahang and Baju Kurung Pesak Gantung because they look quite similar. So what is actually the differences between the two? Easy. The difference is at the crease at the side of the blouse, they are both connected differently. Baju Kurung Pahang is also known for having a high collar and it is once worn with seven or nine identical buttons.
Baju Kurung Moden
Last but not least is Baju Kurung Moden. It is a twist of modern element with the traditional baju kurung. This style of baju kurung can be altered depending on how the customer wants it to be. It is usually designed to look fit on the body and no doubt, it is easily available in any of the shopping malls.
So, hopefully with this simple explanation on the different types of baju kurung it would guide you to make your decision if you so decide to buy one or two for your Raya wear.
Have a great Raya break. Selamat Hari Raya Eidil Fitri!***
Photo courtesy: Google