Title
Netted 'kebaya' with embroidered bright red floral motifs
Year/Period
1950s
Region
Singapore
Dimension
Gross measurement: 73 x 114 cm
Accession No.
2005-01214
Collection of
The 'kebaya biku' (which refers to a kebaya style with simple scalloped embroidery along the borders) has been used as everyday attire by Peranakan Chinese women since the 1930s. It is secured by three brooches and usually worn with a 'kain sarong' (waistcloth). The 'kebayas'' often incorporated stylised floral motifs especially the 'bunga raya' (or hibiscus) found in abundance in Singapore and the Federation. The Malays usually wore it 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.
