Women knitting in Vienna around 1900, photography by Emil Mayer.
Ever since women have primarily knitted and skillfully transformed wool into garments for their families.
The Alpine region, in the center of Europe, covering the South of France up to Vienna, Austria, is renowned for its rich textile traditions. Knit patterns and techniques were deeply rooted in local traditions, reflecting the region's culture, beliefs, and daily life. Each village or valley had distinct knitting patterns and motifs, serving as a form of identification and pride. These patterns often incorporated natural symbols, such as flowers, animals, or geometric shapes, carrying hidden meanings and stories within the stitches.
Alpine knitting was and is a practical skill and a means of creative expression. The craft developed as a way for people to stay warm in the harsh winters while showcasing their artistic talents.
This way Fashion makes sense to me. Looking back to the Fashion Week month for SS25, I have to cite Dana Thomas article "Fashion crisis":
It’s all so dull,” reflected Bronwyn Cosgrave, a former British Vogue editor who is a film and television producer, when we talked about what we’d seen in the Spring-Summer 2025 shows this month. “Everything looks like its been created based on data and algorithms, with AI."
Design Rehash, Lackluster Shows, Designer Musical Chairs, Sweatshop Scandals, Collapsing Sales: Is Fashion Finally Having Its Digital-Era Nervous Breakdown?
#Craftmanship #cultural #heritage
