Tapa dress

Types of tapa dress

Tapa dresses are mostly handmade from bark cloth, which comes in different lengths, designs, and colors. Here are some of their different types:

• Wraparound Tapa Dress: This dress is worn as a wrap skirt and is made of tapa cloth. This dress is versatile and can be adjusted to the size of the person wearing it. It has a traditional design, with the tapa cloth having geometric patterns. The wraparound dress is worn in different ways, providing its users with comfort and style. It is suitable for casual occasions and can be worn by women of different ages.
• Halter Tapa Dress: This dress has a halter neck and is made of tapa cloth. It has a unique design where the dress is tied behind the neck, leaving the back part of the dress bare. The halter design makes the dress suitable for formal occasions. The tapa cloth used in making this dress has traditional Hawaiian patterns and designs. It is a modernized dress that gives its user a classy look.
• Off-the-Shoulder Tapa Dress: This is one of the most popular tapa dresses that has an off-the-shoulder design. The dress has a loose fit, and the neckline is on the shoulders, giving it a feminine look. The dress has a lot of movement, and the tapa cloth has bright colors and floral patterns. It is worn for formal occasions, especially weddings, because of its elegant look.
• Asymmetrical Tapa Dress: This dress has an asymmetrical design, which is one of its most outstanding features. The dress may have an asymmetrical hemline or a unique neckline that sets it apart from other styles. The tapa cloth used in this dress has modern designs and patterns. It is suitable for fashion-forward people who want to make a statement. The asymmetrical design is ideal for casual and formal occasions.
• Mermaid Tapa Dress: This dress is fitted and flared, giving it the mermaid look. The dress is fitted from the top to the knee part and flares from the knee down, giving it an elegant look. The tapa cloth has intricate designs and patterns that are suitable for formal events like galas and award ceremonies. The mermaid style is perfect for those who want to show off their curves.
• Teal Tapa Dress: Teal Tapa Dress is a dress that is made with a blend of blue and green colors. The dress is made from a bark cloth that has a unique texture. The dress is loose-fitting with short sleeves and a round neck. This dress is ideal for casual occasions and is worn daily. The teal color is vibrant and makes the dress stand out. It is suitable for those who love bold colors.

Design of tapa dress

Tapa dresses have different designs and styles. Here are some of their design elements:

• Materials

  Some of the materials used to make tapa clothing are volcanic rocks, tree barks, and seawater. The bark of the mulberry tree is the main ingredient for making tapa clothes. The inner bark is peeled and processed in a series of steps. The strips are joined to make a large sheet. The sheet is then dried in the sun. Dyes from local plants add color to the tapa cloth. They produce brown, green, and yellow hues. Skilled artisans create patterns by hand. They use stamps or brushes to make designs on the tapa cloth. The designs tell stories or show family ties. They are a sign of the skill of the maker. The tapa cloth is strong and lasts long. It is a treasured item in many homes and is often given as a gift.

• Patterns and colors

  Patterns and colors are key features of tapa dresses. Tapa clothing often has brownish colors. They may also have earthy tones. The colors come from natural dyes. Dyes from local plants and roots are used. The patterns are bold and eye-catching. They include geometric shapes. They also include spirals and waves. The designs are made by hand or with stamps. Each pattern has a special meaning. Some may tell stories. Others may show family ties or rank. The patterns may be used on both sides of the cloth. They may also be added to with each use. Tapa dresses are a sign of the skill of the maker and the history of the island. They are a treasured part of island culture.

• Embellishments

  The embellishments on tapa clothing are made from natural materials. Local plants and flowers are used to make them. They are added to dresses for beauty and for cultural meaning. Shells, seeds, and pearls are also used. The tapa cloth is strong enough to hold the added weight of these embellishments. These adornments are made by skilled hands. They make each dress unique and special. Some dresses have added layers, while others have separate embellishments. The added embellishments may include buttons and beads. Each embellishment may tell a story or show the skill of the maker. The embellishments age well and may add character to the dresses as they age.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of tapa dresses

Tapa dresses are unique and can be styled in different ways to make the wearer look great. Here are five wearing and matching suggestions for tapa dresses:

• Bohemian Chic: Pair a tapa dress with a wide-brimmed hat, layered necklaces, and ankle boots for a bohemian look. Add a fringed bag and stackable rings to complete the outfit. This style is perfect for festivals or casual outings, as the accessories give the outfit a free-spirited feel, while the dress remains the focal point.
• Beachy Vibes: For a beachy vibe, pair a tapa dress with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sandals or espadrilles. Add a statement necklace or earrings and a woven bag for a touch of texture. This combination is perfect for a beach vacation or a summer party, as the accessories provide a laid-back, tropical feel, while the dress keeps the outfit relaxed and airy.
• Island Elegance: Pair a tapa dress with pearl jewelry, a clutch, and heels or dressy sandals for an island elegance look. Add a lightweight shawl or wrap and a floral hair accessory for a touch of island charm. This style is ideal for a formal event or a night out, as the accessories add sophistication, while the dress provides a unique, cultural touch.
• Casual Comfort: For a casual comfort look, pair a tapa dress with sneakers or flat sandals, a denim jacket, and a crossbody bag. Add a simple pendant necklace or bracelet for a touch of elegance. This combination is perfect for a relaxed day out or a casual lunch, as the jacket and shoes make the dress comfortable for everyday wear, while the necklace adds a hint of sophistication.
• Vintage Inspired: To achieve a vintage-inspired look, pair a tapa dress with retro sunglasses, a floppy hat, and ankle boots or heels. Add a beaded bag and vintage-inspired jewelry to complete the outfit. This style is great for a themed event or a casual day out, as the sunglasses and hat give the outfit a nostalgic feel, while the dress remains timeless.

Q&A

Q1: What is a tapa dress?

A1: Tapa dresses are made from tapa cloth, which is a traditional material crafted from the inner bark of trees, predominantly from mulberry or breadfruit trees. Originating from the Pacific Islands, particularly from Tahiti, Samoa, and Tonga, this cloth is usually decorated with distinct patterns and designs. Tapa dresses are often handmade and are celebrated for their cultural significance and durability, featuring a soft, fibrous texture and earthy tones.

Q2: Are tapa dresses suitable for formal events?

A2: Depending on the design and adornment, tapa dresses can range from casual to formal wear. Some may be designed for everyday use, featuring simpler patterns and styles, while others are crafted for special occasions, including weddings or ceremonies. Those intended for formal events often incorporate more intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and additional embellishments such as beads or embroidery. To determine their appropriateness for a specific formal occasion, it's essential to consider the dress's design and the event's requirements.

Q3: How should one care for a tapa dress?

A3: To ensure the longevity of a tapa dress, it's advisable to hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent rather than machine washing it. Avoid wringing the cloth to prevent damaging its fibers; instead, gently blot excess water with a soft towel. If necessary, lay the dress flat to dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. If ironing is required, use a low heat setting and place a cloth over the tapa cloth to protect it. In case of embellishments or intricate designs, opt for professional dry cleaning.

Q4: Can tapa dresses be customized or altered?

A4: Yes, tapa dresses can be customized or altered, although the process may differ based on the specific dress and the modifications required. If additional patterns or designs are desired, this is usually achievable by collaborating with a tapa cloth maker or artist, as creating distinct patterns is part of their expertise. Alterations such as adjusting the size or modifying specific components may be performed by a skilled tailor or seamstress familiar with tapa cloth's unique characteristics and handling requirements.