The term ‘Black Friday’ first appeared in the American press in the early 1950s to describe the fact that the streets were black with people on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Workers had become accustomed to taking the day off after Thanksgiving to do their Christmas shopping.
According to Britannica, some retail historians trace the origin of this name back to Philadelphia police officers in the 1960s who, due to the overtime they worked to manage the chaos caused by the influx of shoppers into the city, called the Friday after Thanksgiving “Black Friday”.
Here, Tohora has reinterpreted the original meaning of this term to highlight the beauty of the deep black colour of the magnificent hand-woven natural silk fabrics.
The depth of the colours and the boldness of the designs
During my stay in India, I was impressed by the depth of the colours and the boldness of some of the designs. The dyed mulberry silk lends itself wonderfully to all kinds of creations. It vibrates with intensity.
From Jaipur to Assam, via Varanasi, I was able to touch the fabrics and admire the hand-weaving techniques. The weavers invited me into their workshops so that I could observe their work and the beauty of their movements.
I could hear the loud noise of the wooden loom. I watched them bent over their looms, counting precisely. It is virtually impossible to go back more than two or three rows. It is a Herculean task, which makes the fabric even more incredible.
Black Friday according to Tohora
Tohora has reinterpreted the name “Black Friday”, instead highlighting the beauty and intensity of black shades on silk.
Among other things, I discovered in Varanasi ultra-bold spider web designs! Patterns that offer fashion and interior designers a ‘definitely modern and offbeat look’ for their creations.
I fell in love with the black lace embroidery on the Muga silk, which makes it so luxurious and exclusive.
And discovered elephant weaves that enhance the fabric and lend it elegance.
About Tohora
Tohora specialises in importing silk fabrics for artists and designers seeking unique and authentic products, as well as fashion, interior and wedding designers. Each treasure is made from natural silk. Hand weavers from all over the world weave using traditional methods. They come from Asia, Central Asia, Japan, Africa and Latin America.
Tohora finds each piece during enchanting journeys and human adventures, through encounters with passionate artisans who carry within them fascinating stories woven into the fabric of their culture and homeland.
My uniqueness lies in the value of these one-of-a-kind creations, which are carefully crafted by hand. They possess a living energy and soul. I select these creations with feminine delicacy during my travels.
I also offer a bespoke service to guide you in your quest for the perfect fabric. In addition, I am launching a unique and exceptional service: assistance in purchasing silk textiles, according to precise specifications, accompanied by the creation and printing of a travel book, from the weaver to the finished piece of furniture, thus giving the product you order a unique identity.