robe lightweight

Against a background of stark black, colorful stripes and geometric patterns are diligently incorporated into the body of this sling bag. UMBVS Desert Weavers of India present this easy going bag as part of an effort to promote the welfare of local artisans in the Thar desert of Rajasthan. They weave the bag by hand from cotton on a traditional loom adding geometric patterns in bright colors using a traditional extra weft technique giving it an embroidered look. A zipper pocket on the front offers additional space for storing small items.

Intricate geometric motifs come to life in radiant colors derived from natural dyes. Artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco work with ancestral techniques to create fashion for today and always. This elegant ruana cape is woven by hand of fine alpaca wool, prized by the ancient Inca for its lightweight warmth. The cloak of many colors includes red, goldenrod yellow, fuchsia and orange, among others.

The community raises and cares for its own alpacas. The fleece is washed, carded and spun by hand using a pushka, or drop spindle. The dyes come from plants, nuts and tree bark. The next step is one of the most important, as the artisan prepares the warp, or vertical threads for the backstrap loom. This determines the size of the textile, the color combinations, and the patterns that will be woven.

The intensity of color can vary depending on the hardness of the water, the altitude and the local dye sources, making each textile a unique piece of handcrafted art.

Bold triangles march across ivory silk in a striking emerald and black geometric pattern that gives this handwoven shawl its modern edge. Designed by Indian artisans Rajnandinee and Srabonti using traditional hand block-printing techniques, this accessory delivers visual impact through its crisp, angular motifs and rich color contrast. Lightweight yet luxurious, this shawl layers beautifully over everything from weekend denim to evening wear, adding instant contemporary flair wherever you drape it.

Colorful geometric motifs evoke stair steps in this handsome and combinable sweater for men. By Maria Cutipa, the long-sleeved pullover features a neat crew neck, cuffs and waistband in solid navy blue. She works in luxurious Andean alpaca, renowned for its lightweight warmth to create the intarsia knit patterns.

The formula for winter fun includes one toasty 100% alpaca sweater, knit intarsia-style by Maria Cutipa in Peru. Earth tones and jewel shades mingle in an appealing geometric pattern, with solid brown rib-knit cuffs, hem and collar completing the design. Alpaca was highly prized by the Inca for its lightweight warmth and softness.

Inspired by the constellations, this pretty top featureshints of stripes and geometric stars in shades of blue and brown. Petite glass beads trim the neckline and sleeve opening adding a hint of sparkle. The V-neck finishes withdouble buttons while the back has an asymmetric seam with slight gathers for a relaxed fit. This lightweight breezy cotton tunic top pairs perfectly with jeans or layer it under a jacket for cooler nights.