TIMES SINGAPORE, JAKARTA – In recent years, the fashion world has witnessed significant shifts in how people view clothing. Fashion is no longer just about style or appearance; it now involves awareness of the environmental impact of fashion products, including towardds the kebaya kutubaru. 

The sustainable fashion movement has emerged, encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials and supporting ethical production processes. In Indonesia, one traditional piece of clothing that has gained attention in this movement is the  kebaya kutubaru.

The kebaya kutubaru, with its classic and elegant design, reflects the beauty of Nusantara’s culture and serves as a symbol of sustainability in fashion. Made from natural materials like cotton, silk, or brocade, this traditional attire has a long lifespan, making it more environmentally friendly compared to fast fashion trends that rely on synthetic materials.

According to an article from Portonews, the the traditional clothe has undergone revitalization through various movements that promote its use as daily wear. One such movement is the Funky Kebaya Community, which aims to popularize the attire among younger generations. 

This outfit is one of Indonesia's cultural garments being revitalized by the Funky Kebaya Community. The goal is to promote the kebaya as everyday attire, particularly among the youth. This campaign aligns with the sustainable fashion movement advocated by SPOTLIGHT Indonesia, where the kebaya is hoped to become a global fashion staple.

"Wearing this attire is a beautiful tradition that reflects cultural pride and heritage. Its elegant design symbolizes grace and femininity, while honoring the rich history of Indonesia and other Southeast Asian regions. Each time it’s worn, it connects generations, preserving the cultural identity and timeless beauty of this traditional attire," Hani, a member of Funky Kebaya Community said. 

This campaign invigorates Indonesia’s fashion scene, encouraging the kebaya as everyday wear rather than just formal attire. The younger generation, increasingly aware of environmental conservation, is embracing the this clothe as a stylish yet sustainable alternative.

The sustainable fashion movement seeks to reduce textile waste and create ethical production models, making it highly relevant. Designed to last, this garment can be passed down through generations with proper care, and its natural materials are more environmentally friendly than synthetic options.

Furthermore, the kebaya kutubaru supports the local economy, often involving traditional artisans who create handwoven fabrics, embroidery, and lace. By wearing this nicely designed traditional clothes for women, consumers contribute to preserving traditional skills and supporting local artisans' livelihoods.

However, a challenge remains in making the this traditionl attire relevant to younger generations. Movements like the Funky Kebaya Community have modernized the model, making it more flexible and comfortable without losing its traditional essence. 

As sustainability awareness grows, the kebaya kutubaru has the potential to become an icon of sustainable fashion. By promoting it as a beautiful and sustainable garment, Indonesia can lead in eco-friendly fashion.

Widya Paraswati, a student from UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang and an enthusiast of traditional clothing, stated, "I love wearing the this kind of clothes because it not only represents our rich heritage, but I also feel that I'm contributing to something bigger—the effort to preserve the environment and traditional artisanship."

In brief, the kebaya kutubaru is a symbol of Indonesian culture and an essential part of the sustainable fashion movement, combining sustainability, innovation, and tradition to address environmental challenges in the fashion industry.