Fashion Through the Years: Malaysia

Fashion Through the Years: Malaysia highlights two popular Malay female garments: the baju kurung and baju kebaya. Baju kurung is a traditional Malay dress comprising a sarung, or a long skirt, and a long sleeved blouse. In the1950s, women would pair the blouse with a sarung made from kain songket (a handwoven textured fabric with gold or silver threads) and accessorise with jewellery and a handbag before finishing off their look with bright red lipstick. This garment was initially worn for important functions but eventually became popular for daily wear. The 1960s saw the translucent kebaya, or a slim fitting blouse, becoming popular among women while a corset was worn underneath. The figure-hugging outfit was usually paired with a sarung made from kain songket or batik. Typically, it was custom-made to suit the individual. As a testament to its popularity, the era saw many actresses donning the garment in Malay films. In the 1970s, thick fabrics became the material of choice for wome