Huipil, the artwork in everyday use

Women from Chiampas region of Mexico wearing huipils, photo courtesy PWRDF

Some time ago I visited an exibition of Mexican textiles from the Chiapas region of the country and I was striked by the beauty of huipil - the traditional dress of the Mayan women - as well as by their skills in embroidery. To think about it: a rectangle of cotton with an opening for the head...what can be simplier? This design has been popular in different cultures for centuries . But add some love, creativity and skills to this simple practical piece of clothing and it turns into a work of art.

Guatemala's men of style

Man from Solola. Photo courtesy  Thomas W

When I write about traditional costumes it is usually women whose amazing clothes and jewelry I describe. Because in ethnic as well as in modern world men's costumes are usually less interesting and less impressive than those of women. Men traditionally prefer something more modest, more simple and more sophisticated. But in Guatemala there are still many villages that are worth visiting just to see the men who live there. Because their costumes would surely impress anyone with their brightness and uniqueness. Besides, the men wear them not for tourist entertainment or only on festivals or special occasions but in everyday life. These men are Mayan by origin and wearing traditional clothes is their way to demonstrate their pride in being Mayan.