Leaf Garments – sustainable hiking gear research

Drawings and text by Frits Ahlefeldt

Leaf garments are known from cultures all over the world.  Natural straw and fibers can be woven together – an much of the clothes we wear originates from these kind of garments. But in some places and some indigenous people still  know the art of using materials straight from the plants, as garments

Many of these garments are used mainly for celebrations, ritual and special occasions, but others have more practical functions, like to make people become one with the surrounding landscapes. (Soldiers and hunting people use camouflage a lot) Other designs and groups use natural leaves as portable weather shelters, that are both beautiful, simple and 100 % natural.