Woman’s Folk Costume | Abelova, Slovakia

Description

Origin: Slovakia | Lucenec district | Abelova village
Era: Early 20th century (circa 1910-1930)
Includes: blouse, vest, wrap shawl, skirt, apron, belt, kerchief
Condition: good; vest has wear to silk fabric at underarms and some missing beads; skirt has some small scattered holes; belt has a few holes in cashmere fabric plus color transfer staining and missing sequins/beads; suitable for both wear and display
Measurements (with garments laying flat):
   Vest – across front: 17.5″ between underarms
   Vest – length: 13.5″
   Blouse – across front: approximately 17″ between underarms
   Blouse – sleeves: 18″ from collar to cuff
   Belt: 32″ x 5″
   Skirt – waist: approximately 32″ around +/- 3″ adjustable
   Skirt – length: 30″
   Wrap shawl: approximately 92″ long
   Kerchief: approximately 30″ square
Additional Notes: A striking ensemble from the village of Abelova in central Slovakia. This village, along with its neighbors Madacka and Nedeliste, had a highly developed folk costume repertoire that resulted in numerous variants and colors, from bright reds and yellows through blues and purples to black, each suitable for a different occasion, time of year, and marital status. This particular costume, with its emphasis on red and yellow would have been worn as church dress during especially festive times of the year such as Easter, Christmas, weddings, and other important occasions. The use of blue in the skirt and the presence of the kerchief indicates that it would have been worn by a young married woman, likely during the first years of her marriage. The blouse is a lighter summer variant that became popular in the 20th century once this type of commercially produced pattered tulle fabric became available. The costume features a wide range of materials and patterns and exemplifies the vibrant peasant style that developed here. The vest is made of expensive silk and embellished with floral trim and glass beads. The skirt and belt are made of floral print wool fabric and together with the apron are decorated in a manner to complement the vest with floral ribbons, sequins, beads, cotton trim, and fringe. The unique wrap shawl gets tied over the blouse and arranged so that the lace sections are visible from under the vest on the shoulders, waist, and at the back where it is tied. Each garment is a statement piece on its own and together they create a beautiful outfit that showcases the craftsmanship and beauty of the region.