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. It is fastened in the front by a set of three leaf-shaped or jewelled brooches (kerosang), usually connected by a chain. This brown checked kebaya is made from voile and is decorated with embroidery, hence the name kebaya sulam. It is decorated with large cutwork floral motifs interlaced with other forms of cutwork designs, on the neckline, front lapels, bottom of the sleeves and the edges of the lapik, which refers to the triangular panels covering the wearer’s lap. 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.
