Singapore Stories 2023: Kebaya Re-imagined
Along 30 other fashion designers in Singapore, we had the honour of designing a look for Singapore Stories 2023, a multicultural fashion runway show hosted by Singapore Fashion Council (SFC) for their annual Gala. 
An abode to the Kebaya, we reimagined its signature S-shape spine to create a juxtaposition that gently challenges its integral form. Embracing its elongated front and V-shape hem, an illusion of a righteous posture was created. With a play on the silhouette of the Sarong Kebaya that accentuates the female form, we added a modern touch with a pair of pleated trousers that feature a gradient print, inspired by the harmony and flow between the embroidery and colour details of the traditional Nyonya Kebaya.
To echo the lightness and delicacy in the craft of the Kebaya Belanda, we adopted its strong emphasis on continuance, through seamless shoulders and lace details.
Adding on to our appreciation of craft, we utilised fabrics woven with pineapple leaf fibres from Nextevo®️, a Singaporean company transforming agricultural waste into sustainable textiles. These textiles durable and breathe, which we then weaved to create the inner corset piece.
At its core, the project was an opportunity for us to explore the relationship between the 2D nature of fabric and the 3D element of the human form, crafting a contemporary homage to the beauty of the Kebaya with the signature GINLEE touch.
