The Nyonya Kebaya: A Century of Straits Chinese Costume

by Datin Seri, Endon Mahmood

Overview

This longtime Malaysian fashion icon was originally a long, straight, Arab-inspired top of plain woven cotton. The Nyonyas, the women of the early Peranakan community, gradually transformed it into a shapely, embroidered, translucent blouse, fastened with a set of chained brooches and worn with a matching hand-drawn batik sarong.

Sheer, romantic, alluring, yet sedate, the designs of Nyonya kebaya crosses several generations and cultures.

This book showcases the collection of Datin Seri Endon Mahmood, wife of the Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780794602734
Publisher:	Periplus Editions (HK) ltd.
Publication date:	10/15/2004
Edition description:	Hardcover with Jacket
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	9.00(w) x 11.00(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Datin Seri Endon Mahmood, wife of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato' Seri Abdullah Badawi, is a passionate proponent of local arts. She has been collecting Nyonya kebaya and accessories for over a decade.

Table of Contents

Introduction: A Love for Beautiful Things 1. The Nyonyas: A Brief History 2. Sheer Silhouettes: Nyonya Kebaya through the Ages 3. Gems from the Straits: A Selection from the Kebaya Collection of Datin Seri Endon Mahmood 4. Charmed Impressions: The Artistry of the Kebaya 5. Women of Style: Completing the Nyonya Look 6. The Future: Applications of a Fashion Icon Glossary Bibliography Directory Index