Worn for both warmth and decoration the vest was central to traditional Macedonian costume. This typical design from the village of Dolenci was decorated and worn by Blaguna Nikolovska. It is currently on display in the exhibition Ties with tradition: Macedonian apron designs.
Blaguna described how;
The vest is the main part of our costume worn over the chemise, we call it cosula. It is all handmade at home with wool; it is lined and decorated with embroidery, buttons and appliqué. It was important to never wash the cosula after it was made as it would be ruined. Over the vest the apron or alena is worn with a long belt tied around the waist.
I would like to thank Blaguna for her enthusiasm and willingness to share her memories of traditional Macedonian costume.
Photography by Marinco Kojdanovski
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Post by Rebecca Evans, Assistant Curator
