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. 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. 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.
