Singapore's history for me has always been about chaos, hawkers and brotherhood. The Modern Colony exhibition gave me new insights into Singapore's rich history, mainly how technological advancements and modernity led to Singapore's progress and development. Singapore's past, especially in terms of fashion, has been heavily influenced by 19th century European culture. Through this exhibition I too am able to take a look at the lives of women of the past. Upon entering the exhibition, I was greeted by retro tiles with black and white checkered patterns, similar to the Victorian checkerboard pattern, and kampong-style windows as wallpaper. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay. This retro English atmosphere depicted was in contrast to the dilapidated and messy environment I had depicted of Singapore's history through local films of the past. The bright and lively environment was then replaced by a dark and welcoming environment in which the exhibits were displayed. The exhibition was organized so that exhibits on men were displayed first, followed by those on women and education. Finally, in the darker segment, decorative and expensive household items that symbolized the advent of new technologies were showcased. In my opinion, the arrangement of exhibits showing men first and then women parallels the importance of males over females in the past. Traditionally, a woman's role was that of a stay-at-home housewife. What is surprising is that even at home, husbands, wives and children eat at separate tables, leading a rather patriarchal society. However, with education reforms, women gradually moved out in search of independence and economic improvements. Eventually, their views were recognized and heard by the public on platforms such as "Women's Corner" on the Malaya Tribune. Education reforms had led to the establishment of many girls' schools such as the Singapore Chinese Girls' School. Subjects taught included cooking and sewing, vital skills for their future roles as daughters-in-law and wives. Although women were given an opportunity for education, they were mostly educated to be worthy of their husbands who, on the other hand, received education to raise their social status. In the past, fashion played an important role in defining modernity. With technological advancements, through the use of devices such as radio, people have become more aware and have begun to adopt Western ideas and culture. Back then, clothes with a Western touch were considered modern clothes. Women have become more conscious of their appearance, mostly due to the influence of Hollywood films and imported fashion magazines, something I didn't expect to exist in the past. These films introduced the idea of ​​liberal fashionable women, inspiring women to dress like their favorite movie stars. Women begin to pair the ankle-length cheongsum with high-heeled shoes, white stockings and a handbag as part of Western fashion. The idea of ​​Western fashion was also evident in men; wearing Western-style clothing with walking sticks and hats was considered a symbol of modernity. This led to increased demand for suits, attracting many Shanghainese tailors to Singapore. Department stores such as "Robinson & Co" and "John Little & Co" gradually opened for the masses to shop and do business. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now..