Outfit ideas for looking your best this Eid

For as long as I can remember, wearing a new outfit on Eid always felt important. I remember excitedly looking through our closets in the weeks leading up to the holiday or going shopping to secure the perfect one. Of course, many Muslims do the same since Islam recommends wearing your best clothes on Eid. With Ramadan currently in full swing and Eid al-Fitr soon upon us, it's right about that time to start narrowing down that perfect Eid outfit. 

While Eid celebrations will look different again this year due to the ongoing pandemic — many will spend the day on their own or with only those in their household, or connect on video calls — dressing up for Eid might be the only thing that feels normal. The want or need for new clothes may be even more present than usual. 

There's no set style or attire for Eid, but many of us do opt for more elaborate cultural or religious styles for this day of celebration. To help you narrow down the choices, we've put together options that can be dressed up or down depending on how festive you're feeling this year.

A shalwar kameez is often my preferred choice for Eid; it's what I wore most often on Eid day growing up. Today, a lot of the options feature subtle colours and minimalist embroidery, in place of heavier embroidery with gems and beadwork, making them easy to style up or down. The open-front double shirt is also on-trend and makes this outfit versatile because it can be worn open or closed, and either way is flattering: it hugs the body in just the right areas.

Embroidered Dyed Shirt, Dyed Trouser, and Embroidered Dyed Dupatta, $171, Junaid Jamshed

I'm not usually a fan of lighter-coloured kurtas for men, but this one has so many great elements it's hard to resist. The olive-green tone and suit-like fit are elegant, and the intricate embroidery on the collar elevates the look and makes it much more festive.

Olive Green Special Kurta, $175, Junaid Jamshed

The soft and comfortable fabric of this kurti is what attracts me to it. Even though it's a more casual style, the pattern, colour and flair of the kurti make it look semi-formal — and it can be dressed up easily if accessorized right! I love the overall versatility it offers while still being comfortable.

Blue and White Printed Kurti, $45, Nucreation

The bright orange of this kurta is so pleasing to the eye: it feels like a ray of sunshine perfect for a happy occasion. The skinny fit of the trouser adds a modern touch, and the contrasting colour is a good balance to the brightness of the kurta — keeping the look from being too flashy or tacky.

Orange Colour Plain Kurta Pajama, $49, Nucreation

A kaftan is the best of both worlds: a perfect blend between a shalwar kameez and an abaya. The length and loose fit on this one helps keep it modest, while the deep pink colour, beautiful gold tones and flower-like pattern make the kaftan feel traditional, stylish and fun.

Asawiir Kaftan, $265, ModernNisa 

Thobes are both low maintenance and versatile. I love this dark blue and grey contrasted with hits of white. Combined with the buttoned-up look, they make this simple coverup look well put together. The ability to style this look is endless — for example, by accessorizing with a keffiyeh or some jewelry.

Lawung Thobe with Navy Blue Collar and Trim, $80, Modah

This abaya is like a fusion of all the style components I never knew I needed. The length is perfect for modesty, the colours complement one another so well, and the slight detailing really takes it to the next level. A traditional abaya is usually plain and simple, but the addition of a robe-like closure and bell sleeves on this one add a certain flair.

Trendy Turkish Abaya, $93.49, Trendy Nisa

I remember wearing lehengas all the time as a kid, and then, as now, the thought of wearing one feels like partaking in a fairy tale. I love that the white colour and pattern here keep this look on the subtler side. The fit and flair of the shirt and skirt perfectly complement one another and the figure too.

Flirty Flair Lehenga and Dupatta, $195, Karigur

The pink of this dress is so attractive to the eye, the fabric drapes softly, and the rayon also promises not to stick to the body. Adding some bangles on top of the fitted sleeves can help elevate this casual look, so you can adjust it as needed throughout the day.

Rayon Casual Dress, $89.99, Modest Wear

The white-and-black combo is simply classic — it works for both casual and formal events. Just slim-fitting pants and a simple patterned shirt can create impact. It's a look that comes off as laid-back, but in a good way: it's effortlessly chic.

Muscle Fit Cotton Shirt, $29.99, H&M

Slim Fit Chinos, $34.99, H&M

Sidra Sheikh is a freelance journalist specializing in modest fashion, beauty and lifestyle. You can connect with her through her website or follow her on Instagram @sidra.sheikh_.