The traditional Maldivian dress, or the Dhivehi libaas, displays one of Maldives’ most unique embroidery techniques – that of Kasabu viyun. Kasabu viyun requires silver and gold lace, hand weaved into the neckline of the Dhivehi libaas.
Very few craftspeople currently practice Kasabu work – it is therefore very rare and very hard to buy.
Modern embroidery mostly adorns the Dhiguhedhun, the Maldivian national dress. While thread and needlework were before done by hand, sewing machines are now used widely – however, the more intricate of the work is still done by hand.
The traditional costumes of Maldives are pretty simple. Men wear sarongs (a length of clothing wrapped around the waist) with a long-sleeved shirt, which is regularly white. Cotton is the selected fabric due to the island’s tropical weather. The traditional dress for women named libaas. The costume, which resembles a dress, is naturally worn during special occasions, festivals and during dance performances. They are usually decorated with gold or silver-colored threads, and the best ones are hand stitched. In addition to looking nice, the costumes make brilliant souvenirs.
Culture Maldives 