One of the best things about market and trade fairs that highlight local artistry and craftsmanship is that they help to close the gap between artisans and designers. These artisans and craftsmen are able to directly interact with their market, too, thanks to events like the Likhang Habi Market Fair.
Another great aspect of these fairs is that they are able to successfully (re)introduce local products to a market that is likely to spend more on anything that is foreign. And although more and more people are beginning to patronize local brands, it’s fairs like HABI’s that also serve as a venue for education and information dissemination on how to support local culture responsibly.
As consumers, our responsibility is to be more sensitive to the culture of others. We must learn about the culture that we are partaking of. Ask about the weavers who made your bag. Take interest in what the patterns on your dress mean. It’s not just about following trends. At the end of the day, you will have gained more than just a pair of handwoven shoes.
With that said, we give you a guide on how to incorporate local weaves into your wardrobe. The best part? You can shop for all of these items at the Likhang HABI Market Fair.
Tops, dresses, and bottoms
Probably the easiest way to incorporate local weaves into your daily wardrobe is to buy clothes that feature these textiles. If you aren’t so big on bright, bold patterns and prints, there are a lot of designs that use these textiles as accents in otherwise minimalist or basic forms.
Footwear
If you love shoes, then this is the way to go. Most local fabrics used for footwear are durable and soft, too, so you’re assured of comfort and style.
Bags and wallets
If you don’t want to wear it, why not buy something that has elements of these weaves, which you can take with you everywhere.
Accessories
Technically, some of these have nothing to do with indigenous textiles, but they nonetheless showcase local artistry and craftsmanship.
