What to Wear in Kuala Lumpur: 10 Things You Should and Shouldn’t Wear in KL

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So you’re wondering what to wear in Kuala Lumpur and it’s your first time to visit a Muslim country? Well, don’t worry! Here’s a quick guide of what you should wear and not wear to show your respect to their religion, to feel comfortable under their weather and to generally blend in and not attract undue attention in public.

Skimpy clothing. While it is not very unusual to see locals wearing shorts and skirts in public places, especially in places where it’s generally expected like the streets and the parks, you should avoid wearing skimpy clothing and going out scantily clad in overly-revealing sleeveless, tubes and short shorts. Unless you want to stick out like a sore thumb to the muggers and the bad guys, especially if you’re visiting highly-congested areas like Chow Kit and Petaling Street, this kind of clothing is definitely a no-no.
Jeans. You’d think that jeans are the safest way to go when thinking about clothes you can wear in KL, and they are, except that you might not be able to stand the heat wearing thick fabrics like jeans. If you’re just going to the mall where it is air-conditioned, jeans would be fine.
Short skirts and short pants. Mid-thigh length skirts and shorts are OK when touring the city, but suggestive short skirts and short pants should not be worn in their mosques, temples and places of worship. Covering up in places considered holy by the locals is not only appropriate but is also respectful.
Slacks. Wear slacks! Loose slacks and pants are absolutely fine to wear anywhere. You won’t only feel comfortable in it, you’re also guaranteed to not be taken as stupid and weird!
Cotton shirts. For a tropical country, cotton is the way to go. Also, keep in mind that Malaysia has an equatorial climate, which means that rain showers are very common. Cotton shirts and clothes dry easily in case you get caught in the rain.
Sandals. Sandals are OK when you’re in a tour, but if your tour itinerary includes temples, please know that closed shoes are required for visiting temple complexes. Once inside the temple, you’re also required to take your shoes off, so bring one that you can easily slip on and off.
Brassiere. Wear a bra! Ladies not wearing bras in European and American countries may be common, but it is something unheard of in Malaysia. The female population in Kuala Lumpur wear one whether in public or within the confines of their homes when around other people. And because of the heat, it also comes as necessary because shirts have a way of sticking on skin when sweaty.
Tube tops. If you’re going to bars and pubs, tubes are OK. However, in broad daylight, you might want to rethink a tube top, especially if you’re going to very public places like parks. You won’t get into trouble with the police, but be prepared for stares-and sometimes glares!-from other people.
Sleeveless tops. Sleeveless tops are OK but you should stay away from the provocative ones. You can probably wear them in the mall, but remember to cover up when visiting temples. A quick solution would be to wrap yourself up in a scarf or sarong or bring a lightweight coat with you if you plan to go to mosques.
Hats, sunscreens and all kinds of sun-protective clothes. You don’t have to stay out of the sun if you want to stay out of trouble. Wear hats and SPF lotions when going out especially between 10:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M. It would be really helpful to remember that it’s a tropical country you’re visiting when you’re thinking of what to wear in Kuala Lumpur.