International cultural exhibition is important for those who want to make their country known internationally. If I became the one that organized this event for Indonesia, and asked to send something from my culture to represent Indonesia in this international cultural exhibition, I would choose something traditional, yet not out-of-date. This thing is kebaya. I would send some beautiful models who wear kebaya, to show the world that our kebaya is perfectly beautiful.
If we try to define what a kebaya is, it may prove to be difficult as it is constantly changing to reflect the changing times and fashions that Indonesia is experiencing. Nonetheless, it is possible to make some generalizations about the kebaya. Most kebaya are made from a lace brocade. Most kebaya fabric uses a floral motif either printed or woven into the textile and its length can fall somewhere from above the waist to below the knee. It usually, but not always, has long sleeves. It is usually fastened at the front, and if not, then gives a semblance of doing so. Some variations of the kebaya will use a batik sash, which is coordinated with the kain, draped over the shoulder as an added accessory.
Why I choose kebaya to represent my country in the international culture exhibition? Because kebaya is not just a functional piece of clothing but it is also a symbol of Indonesia’s cultural history which represents national symbolism and high fashion too. Kebaya is a traditional dress, but it has never been out-of-date because nowadays many designers have modified kebaya with some modern materials and design, without losing the characteristic of kebaya itself. This is good, because this make the young generations not embarrassed to wear a traditional clothing of their country.
Although women in the market can be seen wearing kebaya, we can also see exquisite variations of them in government gatherings and parties and high society social functions. The beauty of this national dress is undeniable. Some of the most influential women in Indonesia are married in kebaya that can be described as “works of art” with their hand embroidered detailing and beading. Designers such as Anne Avantie have helped to promote the kebaya not only as a important part of Indonesian clothing history but as a very beautiful item of clothing that Indonesian women are proud to wear.
I am sure by sending kebaya to represent Indonesia in international exhibition will make another country interested with our country. It is not impossible that foreign women want to wear kebaya too by looking how beautiful it is. Kebaya makes the one who wear it looks very beautiful, not only Indonesian women, but also women all over the world.
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