Kebaya tops were worn by Malayan women, many who often could make such clothes for themselves. The kebayas often incorporated stylised floral motifs especially the bunga raya (or hibiscus) found in abundance in Singapore and the Federation. It is secured by three brooches and usually worn with a kain sarong (waistcloth). The traditional sarong kebaya in light of the social changes in the 1950s had taken on a new significance and came to symbolise a modern Malayan identity. This style likely inspired the uniform designed by Pierre Balmain for the ubiquitous “Singapore Girl”, the iconic flight stewardess symbol of the new Singapore Airlines.
