Back to basics, back to FOLK

F o l k

I decided to find out more about folk in fashion as I'm highly inspired by folk motives. In fact , Folk was always present as a part of every culture and nation, specifying beliefs, traditions and position of the wearer.

I started my research by browsing more about history of Folk in fashion.

Multiethinic Fashion

The ethnic clothing and ornamentation have often northern European, South American, Native American, and Asian influences, among others. Time-honored handwork techniques from around the world create the naive appeal seen in felt vests decorated with yarn-embroidered flowers or with cutwork; sweaters crudely knit from bulky yarn; and cardigans with sparkling beads, spangles, or mirror pieces sewn on. The makers use a wide range of materials, such as knit fabric, leather, suede, velour, and denim, and add decorative touches using embroidery, fringes, frills, gathers, and ribbons.

Part of the appeal of folk fashion is that people can readily adapt it to their personal preferences. Some wearers embrace the ethnic look from head to toe, while others add a single folksy item to a sportswear ensemble.
According to trend pundits, this craze was sparked in spring 1999 when folk-inspired designs appeared in the Milan collections. This fashion swiftly made their way into boutiques and department stores in Japan, then suddenly gained widespread currency around May the same year.

Accessories Go Folksy, Too
The folk sensibility has found its way into bags, shoes, hats, and jewelry as well as clothing. The stores are full of bags accented with fur (real or fake) and decorated with feathers, beads, or embroidery. As one might expect, the bags feel good to touch.

Kenzo S/S 2011