In Search of the Ultimate Cambodian Fashion Accessory

by Kemi Harahap


We all can easily recite the major fashion cities of the world in our sleep- Paris, New York, London, Tokyo, but how about Siem Reap, or Cambodia in general? Karl Lagerfield has probably never had Cambodia in mind, but our previous stereotypes must be reviewed because Cambodia is quickly making its mark as a major fashion nation.

According to Xinhua, Cambodia has become the sixth largest garment exporter in the world, after India, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Indonesia. Its specialty in rich materials such as silk and cotton has been exported to neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Myanmar and even to America and Australia.

With an economic growth rate of 9% in 2008 and the fast development of property, local Cambodians have taken larger steps to the road of luxury in lifestyles and also fashion. Fashion and shopping are favourite past-times of local Khmer women and younger girls, with shopping malls and markets jam-packed during weekends. Weddings and small parties have become the major event for the local community to showcase their newly acquired collection of clothing to family, friends and colleagues.

Though many local men and women of the younger generation have taken upon modern clothing such as cotton T-shirts and flowered blouses, traditional Khmer accessories have not been overlooked. Not only has traditional Khmer accessories such as the Krama been used universally by locals, they have also become an important weapon for tourists to fight the foreign Asian weather. Tourists and locals alike have also swarmed Cambodia in search of the ultimate jewelry pieces; fine cut sapphire and rubies, glistening gold bracelets and silver 925 necklaces. Yet why are these accessories so significant and in demand?

The Krama

Since the first century reign of Preah Bath Hun Tean, the Krama became a significant symbol for Cambodian identity. Even under the Khmer Rouge regime, all Khmers were forced to wear a Krama as a sign of their citizenship. Although the war has passed, the Krama has certainly not. It has proved to be a popular fashion accessory as well as a necessity.

Holding a remarkable resemblance to the Arabic keffiyeh due to its checkered gingham pattern, the Krama is a cotton garment serving multiple functions. One could wear it as a scarf to shield the windy night, as a bandanna to fight the heat, or as a sarong across the waist. This textile may cost less than $1 a piece, but with its multiple uses, it's worth the deal.

According to Alex, a sewing teacher at the Life and Hope Association's Sewing School, Kramas were originally worn in rural Cambodia by workers to protect themselves from the heat and dust. However, due to its versatile use, it has become popular in large cities and worn by citizens all over Cambodia, regardless of their sex, race, or class. Kramas have not only been used as a fashion statement, it has also been used for pillowcases, makeshift baby cradles, tug of wars, and even for decoration purposes.

The success of Kramas in Cambodia has caught on by fashion gurus worldwide. Kramas produced from Kandal Province have also been exported to America and Australia, influencing many street styles within the western hemisphere. The scarf became a quick hit with the urban generation as krama-inspired scarves have been relatively in demand within major retail stores such as Topshop, H&M, Urban Outfitters and even our very own Sungei Wang. It is paired with dresses, jackets, t-shirts, and blazers, creating a fresh new twist to the original cotton piece.

Jewellery

The mining industry in Cambodia, though has not gained much recognition compared to its neighbours Myanmar and Thailand, have still managed to capture the attention of faithful jewelry buyers worldwide for its cheaper price. Gold mines in areas such as Kampong Chom, Battambong, and Pailin have become destinations for explorations of gold and other minerals. Cambodian artisans are popularly known internationally for their skills in carving gems, gold and silver.

Although one can see the potential of the mining industry in Cambodia, only about 0.39% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Cambodia is contributed by the mining sector. Despite its weak statistics, but in reality, gold, silver and gemstones are a favorite investment by local Khmer girls and women, with jewelry stalls brightening the dark market alleyways and shopping areas, looming over clothing stores.

Gold, silver and gemstones have become a symbol for social and economic status. Women have always utilized gold as a display of wealth and power and the Cambodian society is no exception. In fact, it has become a tradition that is still intact and preserved by the local Khmer women, young and old alike.