21/05/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

23

Gandik makes comeback in bridal fashion

D ESPITE the wide array of modern wedding attire, classic bridal styles remain a cherished choice for couples, with traditional looks continuing to enhance the elegance and charm of the big day. Paired with heritage accessories such as the dokoh , waist belt or the increasingly popular gandik – a forehead ornament – these timeless outfits are enjoying a stylish revival among today’s brides. Although traditionally paired with songket and classic outfits, local fashion designer Zachrin Jaafars noted the gandik can also complement modern wedding attire. When styled with a sanggul lintang (traditional wide chignon), the gandik enhances the bride’s elegance, particularly when this fusion of modern and traditional styles is creatively planned by an experienced wedding consultant. “Although the best match for a gandik and sanggul lintang is with songket , it can also be worn with a long kebaya made from other materials,” he said. Zachrin, whose real name is Sazrin Jaafar, acknowledged that wearing the gandik can be challenging and uncomfortable, especially when worn for long hours. This is why several social media videos have shown brides taking painkillers or displaying forehead marks caused by the tight grip of the accessory. “For non-hijab wearers, we fasten the gandik using a wire connected to hairpins to keep it secure on the forehead – it is not very comfortable. But for hijab-wearing brides, we can pin it directly onto the headscarf without the wire. “Traditionally, gandik was for non-hijab wearers and looked best with a sanggul . But now, there is no issue for hijabis, as long as the styling is neat, and preferably worn with a shawl,” said Zachrin, a Bachelor’s Degree holder in Fashion Design from Universiti Teknologi Mara. Commenting on suitable hijab styles, hijab stylist Fatimah Az Zahra’ ONCE a quiet and reserved young man, 24-year-old Maxximus Towle never imagined he would rise to fame, captivating thousands of viewers and effortlessly hosting five-hour live streams each day. Choosing a career as a live sales host for men’s fashion brand Zeve has opened unexpected doors for Maxximus, who is now one of the most recognisable faces on TikTok Live. What began as an attempt to sell gadget accessories and skincare products has since blossomed into a full-fledged career. Maxximus draws in thousands of viewers during each livestream – not just for his persuasive sales pitches, but also his magnetic personality and striking good looks, which have propelled the Johorian into the spotlight. Beyond selling, his Eurasian heritage and engaging presence have earned him a loyal fan base, with many viewers staying tuned in even without the intention of making a purchase. “After completing my SPM, I tried out several jobs. But in 2023, I challenged myself to try something new and applied to become a live host. This job is not just a source of

o Couples opting for traditional look to add heritage charm to nuptials

The gandik can be elaborate and difficult to wear for long hours. – PICS FROM INSTAGRAM @ZAHRASABARIN_

The gandik adds style and traditional charm to a bridal outfit.

efficiently. “Before I begin, I ask the bride what gandik shape she prefers and remind her to choose one that fits properly. Some styles need to be sewn, especially those that hang on the forehead. The tie-back versions are easier as they offer better support,” she said. Nornazirah Kamarudin, 26, who wore a gandik for over eight hours

on her wedding day, said it was worth the challenge, as the classic accessory elevated her entire bridal look. “The gandik made my head look less bare and added charm to my bridal aura. The photos turned out beautifully. Compared with a crown, I find the gandik more elegant and simpler,” said Nornazirah, who is from Skudai, Johor. – Bernama

Sabarin, who has two years of experience, recommended shawls over square scarves ( bawal ), as the latter’s structured front (awning) makes it less compatible with the gandik . “The gandik must be placed on the forehead. With bawal scarves, the awning gets in the way, making the accessory look awkward and messy. So always choose the right

type of headscarf when wearing a gandik ,” said the 26-year-old stylist. Offering hijab styling services in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, Zahra shared she usually inserts a foam pad before fitting the gandik and advised brides to take a painkiller beforehand. She said choosing a gandik that suits the bride’s head size is crucial, as it helps stylists secure it neatly and

Maximum exposure

income – I see it as a way to transform myself,” he said. Maxximus acknowledged being a live host may seem easy to outsiders, but in reality, it demands emotional resilience, sustained energy and sharp communication skills. “Some days, you are tired or emotionally off-balance, but once you go live, you have to smile and stay composed. You also need to handle a wide range of questions from customers,” he said. For him, the goal is not just to showcase products, but to keep viewers engaged and interested enough to make a purchase. “You have to know when to be serious and when to inject humour. If viewers get bored or lose interest, they can leave instantly – so every minute counts,” he explained. Apart from maintaining high energy and focus, he also deals with all kinds of comments from viewers, including irrelevant or overly personal ones. “We filter the comments (and) focus on the ones related to the products and ignore the rest. If we entertain everything, we will lose focus. But I get it – most of them are just joking around,” he said.

Towle also dreams of becoming an actor. – BERNAMAPIC

As a full-time employee, Maxximus must meet key performance indicator targets in terms of sales and viewership. To stay consistent, he frequently reviews past livestreams and holds regular discussions with his manager to improve. He draws inspiration from his father, a former salesman, who taught him how to communicate confidently

and close a sale. But, with fame comes new challenges – Maxximus has faced safety and privacy issues, including individuals attempting to locate his home address. Still, he remains optimistic about the future of live hosting as a career, especially as more consumers embrace online shopping and

companies look for cost-efficient marketing strategies. “There is no need to rent a physical store – one platform and a host are all you need. “I believe this can be a viable career path, especially for young people in the future,”he said, adding that he also dreams of one day becoming an actor. – Bernama