Saloma’s Fashion Legacy Lives On In This National Museum Exhibition - While more famously known for having a sweet voice, it is Saloma’s revolutionary fashion sense that really sets her apart. At the height of her career, the late singer was indeed “a woman ahead of the times” in terms of dressing.
She was said to have merged style elements of Eastern and Western cultures. This always took centre stage during performances, and is an image etched in the collective memory of her fans.
In tribute, the National Museum is hosting an exhibition named Pameran Ikon Fesyen Retro Saloma. It showcases some of her most defining outfits, with hopes of keeping the legacy alive.
“What visitors will be able to appreciate is the fashion that Saloma has popularised from the 1950s to early 80s,” states Kartina Abdul Khalid, assistant curator of the National Textile Museum that put together the exhibition.
“The outfits on display are all original, worn by her when she was either singing or acting. There are 65 in total. It comes from the collection that Saloma herself donated to the National Archives towards the end of her life.”
The exhibition highlights the different styles that Saloma loved. Peplum for example, has long been synonymous with her image. She was also frequently seen in varied kebaya cuts.
“She constantly borrowed from Western fashion to change an otherwise traditional outfit. I think it’s because she wanted to make it her own, and really stand out with her own sense of style,” says Kartina.
It is interesting to note that Saloma altered her own clothes. She used additional sequins and beads, as well as stitching techniques and twining to change them to her liking.
The dress that Saloma wore to open the film Ragam P. Ramlee was reportedly hand sewn by her using 642 translucent red sequins. It is further covered with 3,069 cylindrical beads.
Another surprising fact is that Saloma had a 21-inch waist. This probably what shaped her unique style, whereby her many outfits worked in accentuating her slim and petite figure.
“We had to trim down some of the mannequin’s torsos!” notes Kartina, laughing. “We just couldn’t find ready-made ones that could accommodate some of the more fitted outfits.”
“We also employed an invisible 3D mounting technique to show off the clothes. This is to make sure that each piece is shown off in the best possible way, to look like it did on the original wearer.”
Saloma, born Salmah Ismail in 1935, is considered the first popular Malayan singer. She gained recognition as the Nation’s First Songstress in 1978 from Persatuan Penyanyi, Pemuzik, Penulis Lagu Tanah Air.
She married film actor, director, singer, songwriter, composer, and producer P. Ramlee in 1961 and they remained together as a loving couple till the end of their lives.
Pameran Ikon Fesyen Retro Saloma runs from now until Oct 31. Admission is free.
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