Croatian Folk Blouse – 1940s Croatia–Hungary Border – White Linen with Red, Black and White Woven Sleeves – Cropped Body

Traditional 1940s Croatian folk blouse from the Croatia–Hungary border region. Made in white linen with an extremely short, cropped body and voluminous sleeves. The sleeves are woven in dense red bands with black and white geometric details, extending from the shoulders to the wide cuffs. The cuffs are finished with a woven ribbon trim in blue geometric patterns, scalloped along the edge. The neckline is gathered and finished with thin strings to tie or can be worn open.  Side seams are open at the hem.

This style is more often found in plain versions or with black woven embroidery; red is less common.

Measurements

Chest (underarm to underarm): approx. 19 in / 48 cm

Length from neck to front hem: approx. 11.5 in / 29 cm

Measurements taken flat. The traditional proportions and open sides mean fit is not directly comparable to modern blouses.

Condition

Freshly laundered. Small light rust marks and slight discolouration on the white linen areas only. Can be gently hand washed, but use a very cool temperature as the red dye may run into the white fabric.