There are countries which leave a lasting impression. Sri Lanka is certainly on that list. Here, style is everywhere, in perfect harmony with colour. Gilding, vibrant hues, and elaborate patterns are all on show on the locals’ clothing. A colourful tradition, made of fabrics each more precious than the last.

A sarong for men

Its name originates from the Malay verb meaning "to slip on". Contrary to what one might imagine, a sarong is not tied around the waist, it is put on. This piece of fabric is in fact a closed rectangle. A tube of bright fabric, gently slipped on by Sri Lankan men, before elegantly tightening the garment around the waist. It is said that this item of clothing, which has since become an essential part of the local wardrobe, was introduced by Indian and Arab sailors. Even today, it is not uncommon to see people proudly wearing this traditional dress.

In the countryside, the men's sarongs stand out from the landscape. Against the deep green of the forest and plantations, they are like touches of colour that further punctuate the surroundings. Checked, plain or patterned, there are almost as many versions as there are wearers. This versatility has certainly not escaped the fashion world. Embellished with embroidery and other precious details, the traditional sarong is now being revisited by designers claiming their heritage. Because it is both elegant and representative of the country, it is often worn on special or formal occasions. A choice with an undeniable sense of style allowing the wearer to combine syle and comfort, whatever the circumstance. 

A thousand and one shades of saris

If the streets of Sri Lanka are full of colour, it's not just because of the male sarongs. No matter which way you look, you can't help but notice the brightly coloured fabrics. Made from one piece, the sari is a long fabric of several metres that is wrapped around the body of Sri Lankan women. Whether it's cotton, satin or luxurious silk, it's always flamboyant. In the Hindu tradition, each colour has a particular meaning. Red is for happy brides, while green is instead used for celebrations.

In everyday life, the colours, patterns and the way the colours are worn reflect the personality of the individual. When worn loose along the arm, it is called a "traditional Indian" style. Inversely, a bare arm marks a more urban silhouette. Located in the heart of the country, the city of Kandy has even given birth to its own style of folding called the "kandyan". These variations always go hand in hand with "choli", the little top around which the fabric is tied. When the weaving is done by hand and gold threads are embroidered on it, the sari becomes a sumptuous item. Flowers, animals, foliage... Reflected in the intricate patterns, the sun makes this outfit shine in all of its splendour.  

Batik from the past and the present

More than simply a fabric, batik is above all an ancestral technique, passed down between the generations. Patience and care are the two essential qualities for any craftsman hoping to partake. It is a lengthy process in which the fabric is drawn layer by layer, colour by colour. Once the desired pattern has been marked on the weft, the expert hands of the batik master protect the areas that should remain intact with wax. This is followed by the first dip in the dye. Once the shade is printed in the correct location, it is in turn hidden with wax. For each colour, the process is then repeated.

Little by little, with shades ranging from the lightest to the darkest, the final work appears. While it had previously existed only in the mind of the craftsman, the motif is gradually coming to life. Dancers, elephants and flowers are often depicted on the so-called "classical" styles. But although batik is a thousand-year-old technique, its use has never stopped evolving. In the hands of creators of all kinds, it has become a true means of plastic and artistic expression. Whether a fabric, a craft in its own right or an innovative tool, batik never ceases to surprise.