I first discovered Antik Batik just a few years back when I was traveling in France and had peeked into a shop that caught my eye. The more pieces I discovered in the little boutique, the more I became enamored with the line. Antik Batik was founded in France n 1992 by Gabriella Cortese. Although Cortese was born in Italy, she grew up in Paris. Her boho-chic line of clothing and accessories are a perfect addition to your wanderlust wardrobe. The fabrics used in the Antik Batik line are hand embroidered and printed, making them one of a kind.
Growing up in Turin, Italy, Cortese learned the art of embroidery from her Hungarian grandmother. Her love of art and design led her to Paris for school and then on travels around the globe to Tibet and Bali– where she discovered the beautiful art of batik. Adding embroidery and bandhani, an artisanal dyeing process, she created her brand Antik Batik.
Batik is a printing technique in which carved wooden blocks are used to print onto fabric using wax. The wax on the fabric resists the dye to create beautiful, unique designs. The possibilities for design and color are endless with batik, and they are a beautiful complement to the embroidery and bandhani used on Antik Batik items. In fact, in 2009 October 2009, UNESCO named Indonesian batik a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
The embroidery on the Antik Batik pieces is simply exquisite–items can take several days to complete (they are done by hand). Of her work, Gabriella says: “I love metallic sequins that have acquired patina. Once they have oxidized, they look like they have been handed down through the ages.”
The ancient art of bandhani is akin to tie-dyeing. The fabric is twisted and then tied off with string before being dipped in dye. The process can be repeated as many times as desire. At Antik Batik, fibers used in the dyeing are all natural and include alpaca, wool, silk, and cotton.
Antik Batik pieces are unique and are a great amazing pieces to travel with. In addition to the women’s collection, Cortese also creates a Children’s line. To learn more about Antik Batik and view their lines, click HERE.
