Cap-sleeved ‘samfoo’ with a floral motif

Title
Cap-sleeved ‘samfoo’ with a floral motif
Year/Period
1950s
Region
Singapore
Dimension
Gross measurement: 133.5 x 108.3 cm
Accession No.
2010-01432
Credit Line
Gift of Mdm. Soo Swee Ting

This cap-sleeved ‘samfoo’ with a floral motif belonged to the donor, Madam Soo Swee Ting. It was made by a seamstress in the 1950s. This particular samfoo is made from a good quality Japanese fabric. The ‘samfoo’ is a traditional Chinese outfit which consists of a top (‘sam’) with side fastenings and a mandarin collar, worn over pants (‘foo’). Traditionally, the ‘samfoo’ is loose fitting. The cut of the ‘samfoo’ makes it convenient for the wearer to carry out everyday activities. However, during the 1950s and 1960s, the ‘samfoo’ became tight fitting under the influence of Western fashion.