21/03/2025

FRIDAY | MAR 21, 2025

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Shawls make stylish comeback for Aidilfitri for women visiting the palace or the wealthy,” he said, adding that now shawls have become a norm in fashion, with designers creating complete outfits that incorporate them as a key accessory. kain pelekat , modern preferences lean towards lightweight fabrics like chiffon and organza for ease of styling. o ‘They are the perfect accessory and enhance modern, traditional ensembles’

Farah recommends matching the shawl with the colour of the hijab or outfit. For those opting for a contrasting colour blocking style, she recommends limiting the combination to no more than three colours to maintain visual balance. “This prevents an overly ‘busy’ look,” she said, adding that brooches can enhance elegance, while accessories like belts can create the illusion of a slimmer figure. To keep the shoulder shawl in place throughout the day, she suggested using dressmaker or safety pins. “If you have a baby or need to move actively throughout the day, safety pins are the best choice as they are more secure and less likely to come undone.”

“Back then, shawls were adorned with gold embroidery and dangling beads. Today’s designs are more minimalistic and practical for daily wear.” Fashion stylist Farah Dinana shared her advice for incorporating shawls into outfits to elevate one’s appearance. “Choose lightweight materials and avoid fabrics that are too shiny or slippery, as they can interfere with daily activities. Thick fabrics are also unsuitable as they may feel uncomfortable and restrict movement.” With her extensive experience in styling for brands and celebrities,

KUALA LUMPUR: Draping a shawl or long scarf over the shoulder, once a hallmark of high-society women, is making a comeback and gaining popularity across generations. The fashion accessory is now emerging as a trendy choice for celebrations. Fashion designers and clothing brands are now incorporating shawls into their Aidilfitri collections, enhancing both modern and traditional ensembles. Historically, shawls were considered exclusive due to the expensive fabrics. However, advancements in textile technology

have made them widely accessible, with various materials and price points available today, Bernama reported. Fashion designer Zachrin Jaafars said the availability of imported fabrics has contributed to the practicality and comfort of shawls, making them a wardrobe staple for all occasions. “If we look back at the 90s and early 2000s, fabric choices were quite limited, mainly shantung (a type of plain weave silk fabric) Thai silk and chiffon silk. Back then, shawls were custom-made by designers or tailors

Zachrin, who specialises in designing traditional attire, said originally shawls were not just a fashion accessory draped over the shoulder or on the head. “Shawls were used as head coverings then since fewer women wore the tudung ( hijab ). They also offered protection against the weather and were even used to carry items. Today, they have evolved into a symbol of style and modesty.” He said fabrics used for shawls now have become more varied. He added that while shawls were traditionally made from songket or

Ketupat palas , taste of tradition and family legacy KOTA BHARU: The fragrant aroma of glutinous rice and palas leaves fills the air, evoking memories of traditions deeply rooted in heritage. Each fold of the ketupat is not merely a culinary creation, but a symbol of history and culture woven into every strand. run out. For them, the palas rice dumpling is the essence of Aidilfitri joy.” Zainun’s ketupat palas does not just delight locals – its reputation has crossed borders, reaching customers outside Kelantan, Bernama reported.

In her kitchen, Zainun Ibrahim , 45, skilfully folds, fills and ties the ketupat palas. This Ramadan, she has been overwhelmed with orders and is no longer accepting new ones. “More than 3,000 have been ordered since the start of Ramadan. If I take on more orders, I won’t have time to complete them.” Zainun said each palas leaf wrapped around the glutinous rice carries not just food but stories from the past, a tradition handed down by her mother, Salmah Ismail , 62. “I, my eldest daughter Nur Salmi Atirah Zulmuni, 25, and my mother work hand in hand to fulfil these orders. We are a united team continuing the family legacy. “Every Ramadan, orders keep pouring in. Some customers book early because they are worried we’ll

While some customers prefer the rich coconut milk ketupat , others are drawn to the sweet variety. Additional options include peanut-filled ketupat and the aromatic spicy serunding ketupat. “We can prepare around 4kg of ketupat palas in four hours. It may look simple, but if the folds aren’t done neatly, they can unravel while boiling. “ Ketupat palas are not just morning Raya dishes. They represent love, hope and stories that must not fade away. “I hope my child continues this tradition so that every fold of the palas leaf keeps our story alive and remains an integral part of Aidilfitri, ” she said, adding that they are priced between RM1.40 and RM1.60 each.

Zainun says every fold of the ketupat palas is an integral part of Aidilfitri and represents love, hope and stories that must not fade away. – BERNAMAPIC