Huipil Alterations

Traditional handwoven Guatemalan blouses handcrafted and worn by indigenous women, known as huipils, have long been a staple in our shop. Their beautiful, colorful, bold designs make them true pieces of art and it is no wonder they are such a popular item. Our huipils are vintage, traditional and authentic, each as unique as their maker. They tell their own story, their own piece of history. So again, no surprise they are one of our most sold items being used as blouses like they have been used traditionally and even as home decor.

However, they have been known to be returned from time to time. Why is that? Well, it has nothing to do with the craft, the design, the material, or the quality. All of our customers agree that those are superb. It has to do with the fitting. You see, traditional huipils were made for Mayan women; therefore, for many non-Mayan women the head openings tend to be smaller than what they are accustomed to. When trying to put it on, the head opening is too small, and therefore returned, due to it being "unwearable". 

Or is it? Well, truth is that there are options, and with some slight alterations, you are able to enjoy these beautiful, wearable pieces of art. My first suggestion is, taking it to a seamstress. A good seamstress would have the knowledge and expertise to be able to open it up with minimal damage to the huipil and the weaving. The work and the stress are out of your hands! However, if you have some sewing experience, it is also something you’d be able to easily do at home. The first time I’d do, is cut into the neckline to be able to get the blouse over the head. You can snip vertically down the front or back, or my preferred method, snip along the shoulder line to minimize the visibility. From there you are able to add some material, weave, or add a button or zipper closure! And just like that, you and I are able to fit our heads into this huipils. Easy as one, two, three!