The kebaya is a long sleeved open tunic usually reaching below the waist. The frontal hems are secured by ‘kerosangs’ or jewelled brooches connected together by short chains. Simple foliage motifs are embroidered on the frontal hems as well as on the fringe of the sleeves. White cotton or voile lace kebayas such as this were favoured by the Nonyas. The kebaya is usually worn with an inner camisole and paired with the sarong, which is a rectangular piece of dyed cotton cloth worn as a skirt by wrapping it around the waist. Together with the sarong, the kebaya has become a distinct part of the identity of Peranakan women.
