Madras Cotton in the French Guiana

Traditional Madras is a lightweight cotton handwoven from short staple fibers, resulting in the characteristic slubs that provide a wonderful texture.

Originating in India, it was brought over to the French Caribbean and by the late 1800’s, the bright colors and plaid patterns of this material were adopted into the island’s African dress heritage.

Exploring the brightly painted city of Saint-Anne on the island of Guadeloupe, madras cloth and patterns are everywhere - along with the gentle waves and clear blue skies, it is easy to get swept away by the colorful undercurrent of this culture.