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.
