“Kebaya Re-imagined”

For the first time since its inception, Singapore Stories came in the form of a gala, giving guests the opportunity to not only attend a fashion show, but to mingle with foreign dignitaries, business leaders, community and passionate advocates from Singapore’s fashion industry, and enjoy a delightful eight-course dinner. This year, we invited over 30 local designers to celebrate the theme “Kebaya Re-imagined”. In a twofold objective, the theme not only seeks to establish Singapore as a forward-thinking, multicultural fashion centre in Southeast Asia, while honouring the harmony of our diverse and culturally vibrant Asian fashion.

The timing of this event is significant, coinciding with the reopening of the Peranakan Museum and the National Heritage Board's multinational effort to nominate "Kebaya: Knowledge, Skills, Traditions and Practices" for inclusion on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

"Kebaya Re-imagined" serves as a platform for merging the worlds of future fashion with a thoughtful reflection on and celebration of this unique cultural heritage. It creates a dynamic space where tradition and innovation intersect, breathing new life into an iconic regional garment - envisioning the future of the kebaya and its place through innovative or sustainable fashion. 

To celebrate the dedication and artistry of the designers, guests at the gala had the chance to vote for their favourite looks, with the top five looks earning the designers Special Recognition Awards. All the designers have been given the opportunity to display their Singapore Stories 2023 looks at the Design Orchard Retail Showcase, with the best five looks brandished on mannequins. The display will be open to the public throughout November and December 2023.