Purple Dancing Ikat Laptop Case, Hearts.com

By Bianca Alexander

With a creative juxtaposition of texture, tone and pattern and universal appeal to diverse color palettes, Ikat has quickly become a symbol for global cool. Despite its prevalence in both runway and interior design motifs over the past decade, Ikat’s origins predate our modern times. The textile has been traced back as far as the Dark Ages, appearing across numerous cultures and continents since then, including pre-Columbian Peru and Guatemala, 10th century Yemen, Japan, Indonesia, India and Uzbekistan.  

But what makes this artisanal textile most unique is how it’s manufactured. Unlike conventional surface-printed patterns, created by stamping dyes or paints onto a blank piece of fabric, Ikat prints are made by dying threads before they’re woven into textiles. Aptly derived from the Malaysian word 'mengikat,' or 'to tie,' which describes the dying process, Ikat (pronounced 'ee-KAHT') is a refined type of tie-dye where loose threads are gathered into bundles using grasses or wax-treated cotton to specify where the dye should sink in and color the thread. When working with Ikat, the weaver has to figure out where on the loose threads dye should be placed in order to form the desired pattern when woven on the loom. A tricky undertaking indeed, which becomes more complex as additional colors are added.

Equally tricky is the art of incorporating this colorful fabric into your everyday wardrobe. For the bold and brazen, this is a great opportunity to mix and match to your heart’s delight. Opt for minimal accessories and be prepared to make new friends everywhere you go. More conservative? Keep it simple: pair this print with solid, complimentary shades.

For fashionistas who are looking for a taste of Ikat, I love this utilitarian purple laptop case from woman-owned small business Hearts. The sturdy canvas bag is roomy enough to carry a 15” MacBook pro, i-phone, and even a small wallet, giving you on-the go functionality with a splash of style.

And there’s more where that came from: Hearts specializes in eclectic, on-trend accessories designed to compliment every style personality (from "Global Traveler" to "Rebel"), and works with artisans around the globe to heal people and the planet. Each of their eco-conscious products—including an entire collection of Ikat accessories--aligns with one of twenty-two core product values, including social justice, environmental sustainability and the use of renewable, biodegradable and indigenous materials.

What’s not to love?

P.S.
And Hearts is showing our fans some love--use the promotion code CONSCIOUS and receive 25% off on your first order