Huipiles or Uipilli in Nahuatl, simply means blouse. However, one look at the exquisite beauty of these loom embroidered textiles begs to ask, can they truly be considered just a blouse? More wearable artwork then simply clothing, these amazing textiles are one of the most common items traveling back home with visitors of mexico. In a word dominated by factory processed clothing, the thought of hands painstakingly working the intricate designs is unbelievably beautiful and inspiring.

Ornate Oaxacan huipil (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The gorgeous patterns often serve to not only decorate the clothing, but also serves to give personal information of the person wearing the item. Details such as the village they live, their marital status and personal beliefs are revealed through the weaving. Various parts of Mexico also provide a stunning collection of different styles and patterns of Huipiles. The Huipiles of Oaxaca are going to be different than those found in Puebla.

Colorful huipiles (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The huipil is constructed of three panels which are stitched together to form a rectangle. A hole is made in the center for the head, although sometimes it is added during the weaving process. The sides are elaborately stitched leaving openings for the arms and sometimes, for ceremonies, streams of ribbons are also added down the length of the sides of the mid section.

Amazing details (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The length of the huipil varies running from sleeveless to fuller scapular sleeves from greater width. They can extend to the waist or run down to the calf. All huipils are worn with a skirt, regardless of their length. The corte, a type of skirt, is one of the most common accompanying the huipil.

Huipiles are an intriguing example of the detail and handmade craftsmanship still found throughout Mexico. Simply sitting and watching the artist weave the patterns is a cheap, family friendly attraction in itself. While many tourist enjoy wearing their purchased huipiles, many return home with a piece of artwork to be enjoyed decorating a wall. It truly can be a brilliant way to bring the beauty of Mexico with you.

Sugar skulls at a Morelia marketplace (photo by kwbill courtesy of Flickr)

The artistry of mexico is often very apparent regardless of where you go in the world. The bright colors and pageantry of mexican life lives through the arts and crafts of this lively culture. The work of Mexican artisans has traveled throughout the world and is highly coveted by many. Morelia is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the grandeur and beauty of Mexico’s artistry.

The Morelia marketplace is a popular, tourist-friendly adventure offering amazing craft finds including handmade works like the sugar skull-Calaveras above.

Morelia Crafts Market (photo by Jeff K courtesy of Flickr)

The Morelia market place is located in the regal ex-Convent of San Fransisco. Local artisans offer their beautifully hand made goods at amazing prices. If you are able to, talking with the artisans opens a window into the pride and history of locals and the importance of craftsmanship to the people of Mexico.

Temple of San Fransisco (photo by 21st Century Catholic courtesy of Flickr)

The ex-convent itself is an amazing structure and one of the oldest religious buildings in Morelia. The Spanish Renaissance architectural plateresque design is evident while the Moorish windows offer an elegance that is truly worthy of photographing.

Below, a local Morelia artisan tends to the intricate design and details of embroidery work outside the museum. Handed down from generation to generation, it is often difficult to trace how far back the craftsmanship have traveled through the ages. One thing is known, however, the pride in their skills and workmanship is brilliantly apparent in the crafts sold in Morelia.

Local Morelia artisan (photo by Phillip Bouchard courtesy of Flickr)