2017
Thanks to the support of the State Cultural Capital Fund, we are organizing a project "National Costume. Tradition. Continuation"
Every month, we invite you to get to know one part of Latvian national costume, by listening to our experience and knowledge about making national costumes, as well as participating in workshops, in order to make national costumes more inclusive, so that everyone is able to celebrate Latvia's centenary in national costumes.
November - month of villaine (shoulder blanket)
In Latvia, when talking about non-stitched clothes that are put on the shoulders, many different names are used: sagša, seģene, sedzene, villaine, villāne, vilnāne, vilnaine, snātene, lielais lakats, sedzamie brunči, kuča, dubultene, divkārtene, zīlāms, vīkale, mārģene, skusts… The word villaine is most commonly used - it denotes shoulder blankets of different historical times, shapes, decorations and materials. The word villaine most likely comes from the word villa (wool), which is the material from which shoulder blankets are most often woven. The words sagša and sežene from the word segt (to cover) are also widespread.
Villaine - one of the oldest unstitched outerwear in the world - is a coat in a modern sense. For centuries, these cloaks were a part of Latvian women's clothing, which not only warmed and protected from the cold and wind, but also indicated a certain status, wealth, and diligence of the wearer. A luxuriously decorated villaine was worn at weddings or gifted to a special person.
We offer a 10% discount for all villaines until the end of November and organize a lecture on villaine making by Dagnija Pārupe on November 30, 2017.
December - month of shirts
On December 7, 2017, a workshop by Ilze Ziņģīte.
January - month of belts
Latvia is particularly rich in different belts. For centuries, belt was a crucial part of costumes, both in everyday life and on special occasions. Skirts, trousers, fur coats and socks were tied with belts. Each region had its favorite color tones and color combinations, ways of making and pattern elements. Belts complement clothing and give it a special character. The belt is one of the oldest components of the outfit. Belts and their patterns are very diverse; they are an inexhaustible source of inspiration and harmony!
The first lecture of 2018 "The variety of belts and their materials" will be held on January 18 at 16.00 by Lilita Līdaka.
February - month of mittens and socks
On February 8, 2018, a workshop by Inita Heinola.
March - month of skirts
On March 15, 2018, a lecture by Anete Karlsone.
April - month of jackets and women vests
On April 19, 2018, a lecture by Anita Mēnese.
May - month of hats
On May 17, 2018, a lecture by Laila Brūvele.
June - month of men's national costumes
On June 14, 2018, a lecture by Aija Jansone.