Sejuah Mata Memandang pieces are created with the very best in Indonesian artisan textile making.
(Photo courtesy of Sejauh Mata Memandang)
Shopping in Bali can be a dangerous thing.
Inhale enough of that gorgeous sea breeze and leisurely stroll on those generous sidewalks past enough boutiques and even the most harden urbanite will start thinking twice about those linen pants or that flowy floral maxi dress.
Then when you get back to the city, you realize that they call it resort wear for a reason.
Thankfully, the Airport Store, located in the domestic departures area of the Ngurah Rai International Airport, is here to help you transition back to your everyday work life.
Started by the same masterminds behind The Goods Dept., the Airport Store has a great mix of hip local and international brands which have a bit of that island feel without giving off a recently-retired-and-seeing-the-world type of vibe.
I was passing through recently and picked up my new favorite skirt, a piece by Sejauh Mata Memandang. A cute A-line, midi skirt made from cotton with a drawstring waist, it’s perfect for a holiday on the Island of the Gods or relaxing in style in the Big Durian.
I particularly love the hand-stamped rooster motif. It’s a great way to dip your toe into the world of Indonesian textiles or incorporate some local touches into your wardrobe.
I wore it last week to a business meeting where I was trying to convince people that I was a creative, hip, artistic — yet responsible — media type.
Sejauh Mata Memandang is the label of stylist legend Chitra Subijakto and Arya Dipa, so you know there is expertise and authenticity behind this line. From what I have seen so far, the range is quite large, from tissue holders to scarves to elaborate and gorgeous sarongs.
Everything is handmade in Indonesia and the more showstopper pieces, including the Pagi Sore Sebaran Ayan Silk Batik Tulis, which comes with the name of the craftswoman who made it.
You can learn more about this label’s very conscientious ways on their website, including the fact that each textile is made one at a time using natural materials like vegetable, mineral and non-toxic dyes.
I also love that they picked the brains of master artisans from Bali, Java and Sumba while developing the fabrics.
It’s a great use of local knowledge, skill and artistic know-how.
To see some of the products in person the smaller pieces, including utilitarian pouches and totes, can be found at The Goods Dept. and the Dia.lo.gue Artspace.
For the most complete collection, visit Bobobobo online. I was worried about buying my skirt online as sizing in Indonesia can be wonky (read: way too small), but Sejauh Mata Memandang pieces are really easy to wear on a number of different body types.
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