Modern Batik in Malaysian Fashion: What To Wear and How To Make It Pop

In the past decade, urban Malaysian fashion has grown to include the traditional motifs and clothing worn by various communities in the country. Batik - a traditional print created with wax and dye on cloth - is one such fabric option that continues to see an explosion of popularity among Malaysians.

No matter your favourite fashion styles, choosing batik in Malaysia will always pay off, fashion-wise! On the hunt for some fun ways to incorporate batik fashion into your wardrobe and aesthetic? From tips on how to get the look to where you can shop for these pieces, read on to find out more!

What is Batik?

A traditional craft that pervades Southeast Asian culture and identity, batik is a technique of wax-and-dye printing on cloth that is then used to produce fabrics with different kinds of patterns. It is an ancient art of Indonesian origin, with historical roots having long since penetrated other Southeast Asian cultures. Today, it is found far and wide, from Java to the Malaysian states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang with every individual batik-producing region personalising its creations for a distinct, inimitable touch.

The batik craft entails patterns and designs being drawn onto cloth using a hot wax-and-dye process. The resulting pattern is then sun- or machine-dried, and the wax becomes a permanent part of the fabric. The process and type of fabric used in batik-making both play a role in what the final design will look like.

How is Batik in Malaysia Trending Right Now?

While batik in Malaysia has long been regarded as the mainstay of formal (and sometimes highbrow) events, a resurgence in cultural and historical crafts has elevated it to the forefront of the modern fashion world. Malaysians' recent drive to support local brands conceived by Malaysian crafters and artisans has also sparked fresh interest in the art, and purveyors of urban fashion have caught on.

Batik prints and their unmistakable motifs soon became the talk of the town in the Malaysian fashion scene, with many modern batik crafters taking a fashion-forward approach by integrating elements of contemporary silhouettes into their patterns. In turn, clothing and accessories producers have taken their cue from the artisans, relegating the use of batik into brand new fashion items ranging from twilly scarves and t-shirts to bucket hats and backpacks.

Where to Buy Modern Batik Clothing in Malaysia

While you can certainly source batik fabrics to make your own apparel, you can also easily buy ready-made pieces and integrate them into your modern wardrobe for casual wear. Shopping for batik pieces is quite easy and fun - the perfect way to let your individuality shine through with classic and modern prints that are unique and one-of-a-kind. And since this trend is as popular among women as it is with men, you can shop for them regardless of gender! With that said, you can find many amazing batik brands on Poptron.co!

How We Like To Wear Our Batik

If you're looking to incorporate an assortment of batik pieces into your everyday aesthetics, know that the trend is best worn as part of a casual or smart-casual silhouette. Try to avoid going overboard with loud batik pieces, as too much of a good thing can very quickly becoming visually confusing.

For a light batik touch, pair bolder batik prings with neutral and earth-toned colours to balance out the colours, or add pops of batik in the form of batik accessories like headbands, scrunchies, or even face masks. You can even carry your batik as a statement clutch or hobo bag, or wear it with pride on your head in the form of an eye-catching bucket hat! Because the very nature of batik allows for it to come in an assortment of colours and motifs - flowers, birds, and tropical motifs alike, you'll be spoilt for choice!

If you're headed for a smart-casual meeting or a dinner amongst colleagues, we love the pairing of batik shirts with blazers and smart slacks. Alternatively, go the full denim route with a casual t-shirt and a batik denim jacket on top! Don't forget to throw on a pair of smart shoes and a batik-strapped watch and you'll be the star of the show.

For the ladies, we're absolutely mad about this batik print midi dress from batikTEKTURA. And for a mod, casual look, why not try a batik bandeau top over a regular collared shirt?

Choose a design that reflects your personality and style, and wear your batik pieces with confidence to keep your overall look modern and stylish.

The Last Word

If you love showing your personal uniqueness and national pride in your fashion, you should definitely add some batik pieces to your closet. Our suggestion? Shop for them at a couple of the places listed above! Whether you are a man or a woman, modern batik fashion is definitely a trend worth trying out. And with the many different designs and silhouettes available, there is definitely something for everyone!

What's your favourite way to wear batik? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to follow us on our social channels for more fun content, tips, and stories on your favourite local brands!

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