Designer At KL Fashion Week Receives Backlash For Showcasing ‘Sexy” Versions Of Traditional Attire

If there’s one thing that Malaysians love about our shared cultures in one country is, well, the food. But the second thing may very well be the different, absolutely gorgeous traditional attires and outfits.

But what happens when you try to fuse those traditional outfits with modern fashion? A lot of backlashes!

EH! Malaysia took to their Instagram account to share a show by a designer at the KL Fashion Week 2022, where models donned a fusion Kebaya outfit with cropped tops and short skirts.

They wrote, “As expected, the designer came up with an interesting gimmick, for the show at #klfw2022. They closed the stage with the appearance of Dato Seri Vida. This year, ‘Peranakan’ is the subject of the collection led by the Creative Director.”

In the video showcased by EH! Malaysia, the models in the modernised Kebaya ensembles performed a dance as well.

At the end of the show, the creative designer walked out along with Dato Seri Vida.

Netizens were quick to take to the comment section of EH! Malaysia’s video to share their disapproval over the modernisation of the traditional Kebaya attire, as well as the designer’s pairing of a Songkok with a knee-length clothing item.

“It is okay to be creative and encouraging, but please don’t ‘rape’ tradition. Undressing heritage and art.”

“An insult to traditional clothes in the name of fashion.”

You can check out the video of the fashion show here:

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Also read: Guest In Revealing Outfit Causes Major Trouble For Kedah Fashion Week 2022 Organisers