Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, though host to a number of different religions, is mainly influenced by the Islamic culture, which is reflected in their style of dress. When I was there last summer, I flew in wearing a sleeveless shirt paired with a mini skirt and was awarded with disapproving looks as soon as I arrived at the airport. Avoid my mistake and be more culturally sensitive by covering up where you comfortably can! In short, Kuala Lumpur is conservative, practical, and relaxed.

What to Wear

Sightseeing in KL (as it is more affectionately called by many expats) mainly consists of visiting mosques, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and Christian cathedrals, all of which are located some distance from each other. A linen shirt and pants matched with a pair of sandals and straw hat (wide-brim or fedora), will take you a long way in the hot weather. This combination will also be great when you are munching through delicious local delicacies at any hawkers' stall. For a decent meal near the Patronis Tower, wear a knee length silk dress with modest neckline under a pashmina. If you feel like blending in, why not make an attempt to absorb some of the local culture by trying on a beautifully printed sari?

• Hanging Out: Fun, light romper in a colorful print or black and white; flat leather sandals (already broken in!); a colorful square scarf that can double as a shoulder cover in holy establishments; and a colorful, roomy cross-body bag.
• Shopping and Touring: Light long-sleeve shirt whose sleeves you can roll up, a simple tank, bright-colored jeans (try coral or yellow!), colorfully striped canvas slip-ons, roomy and neutral studded cross-body bag with detachable handle.
• Night Out on the Town: Floral sundress or mini skirt and loose silk blouse or handkerchief top, wedge heels or booties, raffia cross-body bag, statement earrings and a simple strand necklace in gold or silver.

Online Resources

For more on what is going on in Kuala Lumpur, refer to Time Out Kuala Lumpur. In the same format as any other Time Out around the world, you will find useful tips at a glance.

Shopping and Desginers

Eclipse is a Malaysian brand that carries dressy pieces at an affordable price, whereas Charles and Keith is a regional brand that offers classy shoes at an unbelievably low cost. So when you are at Kuala Lumpur, be sure to drop by both stores!