Kerongsang
$25, from Rumah Bebe, 113 East Coast Road

Original heirloom pieces can cost thousands. This reproduction of a vintage design costs a fraction. It would look great worn at the neckline of a plain T-shirt, and younger women may prefer those made of silver and pearls. Bear in mind, though, that these are traditionally used as mourning jewellery, so do not wear them to auspicious occasions such as birthdays and weddings

Silver belt and buckle
$450, from Katong Antique House, 208 East Coast Road

Store owner Peter Wee reckons this piece is about 80 years old. Silver and gold belts were worn with the sarong kebaya and elaborate designs were often commissioned to show off the wealth of the wearer's family. Square buckles were worn by men and oval buckles by women. Pair with a simple ensemble of jeans and tank top to add a subtle touch of cool.

Batik sarong
$450, from Katong Antique House

This mint-condition piece, from the 1930s, sports the lush blooms, butterflies and bright colours typical of nyonya-style batik. Peranakan women used to strew peppercorns and shredded pandan leaves over their sarongs to keep insects away. They also added papaya leaves to the washing water to let the sap act as a natural fabric softener.

Vintage kebayas
$120 (left) and $80, from Katong Antique House

From his 94-year-old mother's kebayas to the ones sold to him by people who can no longer fit into theirs, shop owner Wee has amassed hundreds of vintage kebayas. He keeps the top-notch stuff in his private, not-for-sale collection but says he is open to selling a piece if the buyer demonstrates a real passion for Peranakan culture.

Blouson-style kebaya
$400, from Rumah Bebe

Designer Bebe Seet likes to experiment with the typical silhouette of the kebaya. In this piece, she made the lines more billowy. While you can pair the kebaya with modern garments such as pencil skirts and tank tops without any traditional brooches, please do not tie the ends together. "It just doesn't look good," says Wee.

Strappy beaded heels
$400, from Rumah Bebe

In the old days, making beaded shoes (known as kasut manik) was something a Peranakan mother taught her daughters and a reflection of the woman's skill and virtue. Old-school styles were flats that were closed at the toe and designs were often based on European cross-stitch patterns. The beads were imported from European countries, like the former Czechoslovakia (they are no longer made), and are considered superior because the irregular facets made the slippers' design more vibrant. Today's beads are more uniform and made in Japan. This pair is a modernised version designed by Seet, who also holds classes where you can learn how to make your own beaded slippers. Call 6247-8781 for inquiries.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times on Jan 9, 2009.