Defining The Hidden Treasures Of Peranakan Culture Through Costumes And Wardrobe

Baba Nyonya's Culture (Clothing)

Baba Nyonya can be found in the city known for its many historic events which is Malacca. Baba Nyonya are also referred to as "Peranakan'' or ''Straits-born Chinese''. The Nyonya have two types of clothing, which are ''Baju Kebaya'' and ''Baju Panjang''. Baju Kebaya is usually designed with symbols and patterns incorporated from China such as dragon, phoenix and lotus. It can be worn in any occations and is worn with kain sarong batik. A decorative metal brooch is used as button to secure the opening of the blouse. It can be made from brass, iron, silver or gold, decorated with semi-precious stones and it signifies the social status of aristocracy, wealth and nobility. The most iconic shape in Peranakan jewellery is the kerosang thoe, designed to represent a peach which symbolises marriage, spring, justice and longevity. As for Baju Panjang, it was adapted from the native Malay's Baju Kurung. It is worn with a batik sarong (batik wrap-around skirt) and 3 kerosang (brooches). The Nyonya also have their own traditional beaded slippers called ''Kasut Manek''. The beaded slippers are strung, beaded and sewn onto canvas with tiny faceted glass cut beads by hand. It takes a lot of skill and patience to make the beaded slippers. The Nyonya wear this slippers to complete their Baju Kebaya outfit. Lok Chuan which is also known as Mandarin Jacket is the Baba's traditional attire. It is usually worn during family gatherings such as Chinese New Year.