Ultra-Feminine
September 20, 2007 by haziamyperspective
The media interview that I arranged for the Kebaya man’s boutique appeared in the newspaper today. It was a really fantastic piece, well-written and thorough. And we could borrow some of the words used for future PR:) I kind of like ‘ultra-feminine’ and ’sheer sensuality’. I thought the photos could have been better though. Anyway, he was very happy with the article below. When I thanked the Editor just now, she said she enjoyed looking at the photos. Let me know if you want to see the full article:D.
Sheer Sensuality
The contemporary Indonesian kebaya is ultra-feminine and carries intricate handiwork. xxx visits xxx boutique to see its collection.
THE traditional kebaya top originated from the Arab region and was worn by Indonesian women in the 15th and 16th Century. The earliest form of the kebaya came from the northern part of the Indonesian archipelago and in time spread to places like Java, Bali, Sumatra, Borneo and Malacca.
The traditional form of the garment was adapted to local customs and culture. The Peranakan people of Malacca, for example, introduced Chinese embroidery to theirs and are renowned for their "nyonya kebaya", a look that is complete with matching sarong and beaded slippers.
A few hundred years on, the kebaya is still being modified and reinterpreted. Yet, it remains the traditional outfit for Indonesian women today. Unlike the kebayas of other countries, the Indonesian kebaya is distinctively cut very close to the body and is made of sheer material like lace, subtly revealing a form-fitting corset within to highlight the womanly curves of the wearer.
"It should almost feels like a second skin when you wear it," exclaims xxx, the Indonesian designer of xx fashion boutique in Kuala Lumpur which sells and custom makes the modern Indonesian kebaya. The boutique exudes a homely atmosphere. It houses an impressive array in various Indonesian styles.
A chance encounter with the intricate and sexy Indonesian kebaya at a shop in Jakarta was what prompted xxx, the managing director of xxx, to open a boutique in Malaysia.The Indonesian kebaya’s body-hugging fit, sheerness of fabric and intricate details in beading and embellishment on the bodice and sleeves distinguish it from other kebaya varieties, says xxx.
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