Woman's blouse (Huipil)

The weavers of San Juan Comalapa produce two distinct styles of huipil. The mero (pure) Comalapa huipil is distinguished by the use of a cuyuscate (natural brown cotton) or white ground, a bright red creya (band) at the shoulders and rujiki 7al bands of narrow stripes) separating rows of patterning. The newer sanmartineco (in the style of San Martín) huipil is totally different with its indigo, black, or green ground cloth and the use of modern, naturalistic floral imagery. Both styles have everyday and a festive versions which are differntiated by subtle nuances. The ceremonial mero Comalapa huipil is very large and is worn like a poncho over an everyday huipil. The festive sanmartineco huipil has elaborate floral designs brocaded in silk or sedalina yarn rather than cotton