The kebaya is an open tunic with long sleeves, a collarless neck and front opening. It is a hip-length garment and is gently shaped to flatter the figure. This white kebaya is made from voile and is decorated with embroidery, hence the name kebaya sulam. Cutwork floral motifs, are concentrated on the front lapels, the bottom of the sleeves as well on the lapik, which refers to the triangular shaped lower front panels covering the wearer’s lap. The rest of the piece is decorated with wavelike patterned lines. Such designs of kebayas became common in the mid-20th century. The use of embroidery on the kebaya allowed Nyonyas to have greater leeway to customise their own individual piece, so that the chances of them wearing an identical piece with someone else were greatly reduced. Being of a translucent material, this garment would have been worn with an inner, possibly long-sleeved undershirt.
