What is a sarong kebaya?

The above colourful sarong kebaya is one of my favourite attire. I have kept it properly in my wardrobe.

This traditional costume is the Nyonya's first modern dress back in the 1920s. It was first worn by the Chinese women who lives in Indonesia and Malaysia.

The top of this two-piece outfit is the kebaya while the sarong is the accompanying wraparound skirt. What makes the sarong kebaya unique is its floral patterns and embroidery. Embroidery refers to the patterns that are sewn onto cloth using threads of various colours. It usually takes around two years to master the art of the embroidery. On average, a skilled tailor requires at least two weeks to think of a pattern for the sarong kebaya.

Here are some tips for buying a sarong kebaya:
- Choose one that is ideal for your body shape, height and age.
(If you are a young Nyonya, then you should try sarong kebayas that have pastel shades.


Reference:
Khoo, J. E. (1996). The straits chinese: A cultural chinese. Singapore: The Pepin Press.