Netted 'kebaya' with orange abstract hibiscus motifs

Title
Netted 'kebaya' with orange abstract hibiscus motifs
Year/Period
1950s
Region
Singapore
Material
Dimension
Gross measurement: 59.2 x 116.5 cm
Accession No.
2005-01215

The 'kebaya' was worn by Peranakan Chinese women since the 1930s. It is secured by three brooches and usually worn with a 'kain sarong' (waistcloth) and developed into the modern batik 'sarong kebaya' suit with its modern conveniences starting from the mid-1960s. The 'kebaya' top is usually worn with a corset, which helped to accentuate the wearer's slim figure. As the fabric was thin, women would wear camisoles underneath, until brassieres became popular in the 1950s.