| By :
Eddie Prentice
With beach holidays for many now being the norm rather than the exception, a whole new world of informal beach attire has evolved for young and old alike. This means practical outfits that can be worn both on the beach and early evening in the bar or just around the house or hotel. The kikoy (sometimes spelt kikoi) is a classic example. In the past, for those who had never been to East Africa, a kikoy was probably an unfamiliar item. Today however, most fashion aware women will know what kikoy is. This is slightly ironic as a kikoy was originally a traditional garment for men. Basically, it is a piece of woven cotton which is rectangular in shape. They originated in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, and have a similar look and function to a wrap or sarong. Today Kikoys are worn by men and women of all ages and size. The great thing about kikoys is that they are so versatile. There are simply masses of ways to wear them for a start. They are the ultimate in African accessories. They can be worn like a sarong or a casual evening dress. They are not only ideal for the beach either, as they have been used to double up as a scarf or picnic rug or even a colourful furniture throw. Other uses include as a table cloth, bedspread or just about anything a rectangular piece of cotton can be used for. Kenya is the true spiritual home of the kikoy, notably on the coastal areas. Kikoys are generally manufactured in small local factories, or just groups of workers, using locally grown cotton, often of the highest quality. They produce very practical garments, designed not just for comfort but for style. It is a traditional garment which now has a very contemporary look. It is worn at waist level as a sarong or wrap for men and women. Alternatively it is worn under the arms like a towel, tied, turned and twisted to fit. A kikoy is not just a garment it is a work of art using the vibrant colours which are reminiscent of the region. The cotton, which is woven and spun in Kenya, is mostly dyed with eco certified dyes from Europe. This gives an enduring quality not usually found with the old traditional dyes. The manufacturing process itself remains very traditional with looms threaded by craftsmen almost like a Persian carpet. This means each kikoy could be said to be unique as there will be minute differences in each batch of looming. Of course no garment of clothing is complete without accessories and a whole branch of suppliers will offer hats, beads, bags and belts to give to finish off the kikoy look.
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