This is a traditional Karen (Kayin) shirt from my culture, in Karen we call it "cheh knyaw". The shirt can be worn casually, but many people choose to wear it to special events, like Karen New Year. Made from handwoven dried hemp or cotton, every shirt is a unique piece of art. Weaving takes a woman 1 to 2 months, which shows the time and effort used to make these traditional garments. 
      The shirt features a boxy shape with a woven V-neck. The body is made from handwoven black fabric, highlighted by a red middle section filled with tiny green, white, and yellow embroidered diamonds. The front and the back of the clothing are symmetrical, representing living life honestly and with sincerity. 
      This piece holds deep personal meaning to me because it was given to me by my mother. She originally bought it from a Karen store that specifically sells Karen clothing. Receiving it                                                                                                                         made me feel grateful and proud of my roots. It also made me feel closer to my family. Wearing my cultural clothing is a way of carrying my homeland with me and making sure my culture is not forgotten. 

– WP

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