MANGMEE: A Contemporary Masterpiece Integrating Yao Culture

A Unique Purse Designed by Douangmany Heuangkhamsene

MANGMEE is more than just a purse; it is a portrayal of the aspiring story of the Yao ethnic group. With a longstanding history dating back to the 15th Century when they fled from the Chinese Civil War, the Yao people have a rich cultural heritage. Tookta, the designer, aims to preserve and showcase this culture through her unique creation.

The purse is a perfect combination of ethnic art and jewelry. It is meticulously hand-sewn with traditional Yao ethnic patterns and indigo-dyed for a vibrant and authentic look. The distinctive 92.5% silver ornament adds a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the design. The result is a simple yet one-of-a-kind purse that is perfect for social events, functions, and evening receptions.

Creating MANGMEE was not without its challenges. Dealing with ethnic communities presented difficulties in finding the right fabric for their embroidery work. The materials had to be changed multiple times to ensure the quality of the final product. Additionally, the Yao people live in remote areas with no internet access, requiring the design team to travel long distances to collaborate with them. Despite these obstacles, the dedication and perseverance of the team paid off, resulting in a product that truly represents the essence of Yao culture.

MANGMEE not only showcases the beauty of the Yao culture but also aims to empower ethnic women by providing them with opportunities to earn income from their traditional skills. By valuing their traditions and preserving their cultural heritage, these women can contribute to the preservation of their community and its unique identity.

The MANGMEE purse is part of a larger design project that started in September 2017 and will conclude in October 2019 in Vientiane, Laos. It is a testament to the designer's commitment to promoting cultural diversity and celebrating the craftsmanship of ethnic communities.

This exceptional design has been recognized and awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Fashion and Travel Accessories category in 2019. This prestigious award acknowledges the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of MANGMEE, which meets professional and industrial requirements. The purse's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contributes to a better world.

Images:

Image #1: Phonesavanh Saengphachan

Image #2: Phonesavanh Saengphachan

Image #3: Phonesavanh Saengphachan

Image #4: Phonesavanh Saengphachan

Image #5: Phonesavanh Saengphachan