NYONYA KEBAYA

“The sarong kebaya style associated with Peranakans today was popularised in the 50s and 60s,” shares Kennie Ting, the director of the Asian Civilisations Museum and Peranakan Museum. “It consists of a long-sleeved, tight-fitting, hip length, open-front garment with a V-shaped lapel, made of translucent voile, worn with a camisole or brassiere beneath. It is usually matched with an ankle-length batik sarong.” Raymond Wong, who has a passion for kebaya-making and Peranakan beadwork, strongly believes in making the culture relevant for the young. “I feel that the Nyonya sarong kebaya should be updated, in order to stay relevant in these times and remain relatable to the younger generation.” Having built a reputation for craftsmanship with his fashion label Babasblacksheep, Wong hopes to see more women in Singapore wearing the Nyonya sarong kebaya when attending functions, both locally or overseas, “because it is a very distinct traditional costume which is pragmatic yet creative”. He also wants to encourage the younger set to match the kebaya with ubiquitous daily apparel, such as jeans.