I may have found the most exquisite batik of all time. There is a street in Denpasar called Jalan Sulawesi and it is lined with fabric merchants (heaven). I've trawled this street many times and found a pile of this beautiful batik in the back corner of a very non descript store. It had been sitting there for a while, as many pieces had sun fade marks. I carefully selected my favourite pieces in perfect condition and took them to Ketut, my wonderful tailor in Seseh to turn into magic. Each top is slightly different, some slightly longer, some with thicker front ties. Each cuff has beautiful detail when you turn them up.
I wanted to create a top that was an easy fit and a free size as I could only make one top per piece. This approach (hopefully) allows each piece to fit a broader range of sizes. Working within the bounds of the size and type of fabric is what I love most.
Traditionally the piece of fabric in this top was made as a sarong, and so the layout of the design reflects the use and shape of it's initial intended use. Hand batik techniques are used to make this fabric using the canting tool and wax to draw the patterns. This particular batik style is from an area in Central Java called Pekalongan.
Styling note:
- Can be worn as a top with front ties.
- Or keep untied for an over shirt
- Cuff can be folded up to shorten length and reveal batik underside.
- This piece is approximately 10cm longer for those preferring a little more length.
Measurements - These are fabric measurements
- HSP (High Shoulder Point) to hemline - 54cm
- Neck to cuff hem - 73cm
- Width from side seam to side seam - 72cm
Carlie is 180cm tall and usually a size 10 or Medium size.
Colours may vary depending on your computer screen.
