Chiromani: Maori and Comorian traditional clothings

Chiromani: Maori and Comorian traditional clothings

What is the Chiromani?

Chiromani is a traditional fabric of the Mahorais and the Comoriennes. Indeed, it is a two-tone cotton fabric made up of 6 tiles repeating the same pattern. Its traditional and usual colors are bright red, black and burgundy.

Very popular fabric in Comoro Archipelago and on the island of Anjouan.

On island of Anjouan and the archipelago of Comoros, Chiromani fabric is unavoidable. A new model comes out almost every week on the island of Anjouan. There is not a place where one does not meet a woman with the chiromani. They wear this traditional garment on all occasions, ie at the bakery, the post office, the market.
Women of Maori and Comoros also wear this attire during weddings, festive, traditional or religious ceremonies. This garment can be worn as a veil or wrap the entire body of the woman. Generally, women dress with this kind of clothing to please their husbands. Young as old, everyone cracks for this traditional garment.

Colors and meanings.

Like, as I said before the traditional colors of Chiromani are bright red, black and burgundy. Originally, this fabric was bicoloured and the women associated only the red and white colors. But now, it is found in all colors for the delight of these ladies.
In addition, it is a fabric composed of 6 tiles with various symbols like clove, jasmine, ylang for flowers or those of the card game (clover, tile, spade and heart).

Crafts and production.

Unfortunately, there is no production unit in the Comoros islands. The majority of industrial production comes from Asia to the detriment of the quality of the fabric. It must also be said that originally, Chiromani stuff comes from India. This fabric that was originally designed to last for years, lasts only 6 months now. Offshoring has contributed to lower prices (between 8 and 15 euros per unit) but to degrade the quality of the product.
It is hoped that the Mahorais and the Comorians will realize the value of their fabrics and will begin to revive the quality of this fabric by manufacturing it locally or artisanally.

Today.

Many stylists and designers divert Chiromani fabric and transform it into infinity in dresses, skirts, shirts for men. One example is the Maison Udjuwa, founded in 2015, which creates unique garments inspired by its East African and Parisian heritage. Chiromani and Khanga are the flagship fabrics he uses.
Symbol of Anjouan and Comorian woman, Chiromani is a fashion dress adopted and preserved like a treasure in the four islands. It is a true institution and an external sign of wealth. Popularized, he also succeeded in seducing women from other islands.