Traditional Costumes

In this post, we will be touching on the traditional costumes of each ethnic race. Every ethnic group has their own traditional costumes, unique cuisines and tradition.

For the Chinese, female’s traditional dress is called a cheongsam, also known as qipao. The modern version is usually tight-fitting to the person who wears it and meant to be stylish and fashionable. It was created in the 1920s in Shanghai and gained its popularity then through the rich and famous people.

For the males, their traditional costume is called a changsan, also known as changpao. It was the formal dress for Chinese men before suits were introduced to the Chinese.

For the Malay, the female’s traditional costume is called a Kebaya. It is a blouse and dress combination worn by the females. Its inspiration came from Arab region’s clothing.

For the males, their traditional outfit is called Baju Melayu. It is a combinations of a long sleeved shirt with raised stiff collars and trousers. It is usually made of silk too.

For the Indians, female’s traditional clothing is called a Sari. The most commonly seen style is with the sari wrapped around the waist with one end over the shoulder. They are usually colourful and unique.

For the males, their traditional costume is called lungi which is a rectangle cloth draped around the waist and tucked in front of the groin area.

All these different ethnic group’s traditional costumes possess their own uniqueness and come together to form part of Singapore’s culture. In the next post, we will be covering unique cuisines and traditions that made up Singapore’s culture.