The embroidery on this kebaya by Singaporean designer Raymond Wong references the Christmas bible story of the Three Wise Men. Amongst intricate kerawang (lattice cutwork), the dove and holly embroidery on the hem, cuff, and collar adds to the festive theme. The doves were embroidered using glow-in-the-dark threads. Figural designs among Peranakan embroiderers are more unusual given its complexity. Raymond Wong made this kebaya for his mother to attend his brother’s wedding which was intended to be around Christmas. It took the designer two months to make this kebaya.Raymond Wong is a Peranakan designer specialising in kebaya and beaded shoes. In the early 2000s, the self-taught designer picked up the craft by deconstructing vintage kebaya and studying embroidery books. Having dressed actresses in the popular TV series Little Nonya, former first lady Mrs Mary Tan, and private clients in foreign affairs, his fashion has brought international attention to the contemporary Peranakan fashion. He also teaches kebaya embroidery at LASALLE, School of Fashion; and formerly served as the 2nd Vice-President of the Peranakan Association, Singapore.
