In the hands of the Baule people of Côte d’Ivoire, fabric becomes more than cloth — it becomes a keeper of memory, movement, and meaning.
MOYO 'Oceans' Dress/Tunic In Indigo Baule
Baule (pronounced Ba-oo-lay) textiles are handwoven on narrow-strip looms, an ancient method passed down through generations. Each piece is composed of long cotton strips of indigo, carefully sewn together to form a larger cloth and finished with embroidered detailing.
But it’s not just the technique that makes Baule textiles remarkable. It’s the rhythm in their stripes, the surprise in their muted indigo, and the tiny imperfections that speak of human hands. You’ll often find subtle ikat patterns or symbolic motifs dyed into the fabric.
In Baule culture, textiles are deeply ceremonial. They are gifted during births, worn at weddings, wrapped around elders, and enrich other ceremonial event. Each cloth carries the weight of tradition but also breathes with the individuality of its weaver.
Not Just Indigo. Always Intentional.
While indigo is the heartbeat of many Baule textiles — deep, rich, and full of spirit — it's not the only voice. These handwoven pieces also carry tones of clay, rust, cream, and faded sun. Each hue is a reflection of what was available, what was meaningful, and what was felt by the weaver.
No two cloths are ever quite the same. And that’s the beauty: every piece holds a different rhythm, a different story — just like the people who wear or live with them.
At MOYO, we source authentic Baule textiles and allow them to live again — reimagined as garments. We don’t just use them due to their raw beauty, but also because they belong to a lineage of artistry that deserves to be honored.
When you bring a Baule piece into your home or wardrobe, you’re not just choosing design — you’re choosing history, intention, and soul.
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