January 2020 Edition Apparel January 2020 issue | Page 42

FEATURE
Threads of Tradition
Luang Prabang brims with a rich textile legacy and serves as an inspiration for textile designers
and brands. Brinda Gill gives a first-hand account of the same.
LUANG PRABANG: AN INTRODUCTION
Luang Prabang is located in the centre of
northern Laos, at the confluence of the Mekong
and Nam Khan rivers, and is conveniently
connected with several cities in Southeast
Asia. The deep-rooted Buddhist culture; the
many textile, garment, and craft stores in the
town; artisan centres with textile workshops;
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January 2020
aesthetically designed cafés and restaurants;
and the bustling night market (at one section
of Sisavangvong Road) make it an inspiring
destination for textile designers and students.
The tourist office located at Sisavangvong
Road offers comprehensive information to
Vientiane is the capital of Laos and Luang
Prabang is regarded as the religious, spiritual
and cultural centre of the country for its beautiful
wats (temple complexes), sacred sites, and
a resplendent craft heritage. In 1995, Luang
Prabang was also placed on the list of UNESCO
World Heritage sites. Travellers from across the
world laud the beauty of Luang Prabang and
textile enthusiasts find it akin to a treasure chest
of beautiful textiles.