Beauty from Bulgaria: Stara Zagora

Trims, sequins, counted thread work, and chenille-like embroidery– the traditional clothing of Stara Zagora in southeastern Bulgaria (Thrace) protects, identifies, charms, and delights. Note the black, jumper-style, wool dress, called a sukman, worn over the long blouse beneath the apron. Layered circles of felt and sequins decorate a wide border. 

The chenille work on the apron is particularly intriguing! I see similar stitching in Mexican traditions, for one. A future workshop in the making!

Woman's ensemble, Stara Zagora, southeastern Bulgaria (Thrace), twentieth century, Fowler Museum.

Back of above piece, Fowler Museum.

Detail of above, Fowler Museum.

1900-1950, The British Museum.

Women’s shirt, “riza,” 1900-1950.

The British Museum.

Wool counted thread work band, 20th century, from The British Museum.

Via startzagora.love

Image via folkcostume.blogspot.com.

Sources:
Resplendent Dress from SouthEastern Europe, Essay by Elizabeth Wayland Barber, Fowler Museum at UCLA.
The British Museum
folkcostume.blogspot.com