An essential stop for visitors to Oaxaca is the Benito Juarez Market. Enter through the main arch on Calle de las Casas, make a quick stop to see the basket weavers and buy a few lightweight colorful pieces, then make a left at the first aisle.
At the second stall to the left you will find Señor Crispin Morales Osorio (Benito Juarez Market #230, Tel: 951-514-0859). 
This is where I took Hollie for her first Oaxaca shopping foray (or forage, you choose). And the results are stunningly Oaxaca colorful. She bought this beautiful hand-woven, hand-embroidered huipil from the Amuzgo pueblo for 800 pesos (that’s $58 USD). You can hardly buy a T-shirt in the U.S. for that price.
Hollie, an artist and participant on the Oaxaca Photography Workshop: Market Towns and Artisan Villages, wanted to absorb more of the local color. I think she did it, don’t you?
Señor Crispin comes highly recommended by friends at the Museo Textil de Oaxaca for good quality at fair prices. I have bought several things there. Throughout the market you will find stalls selling equally good quality and more that sell schlock. Check the seams, the quality of the finish work along the neckline and hems, the intricacy of the weaving and embroidery. Compare prices before you make your purchase.
Now, it is 82 degrees in Oaxaca, a bit humid because of all the recent rain and a loosely woven 100% cotton garment that is not form-fitting feels really good. And did I say again, it’s safe here!
Spaces open for Oaxaca Day of the Dead Photography Expedition, October 28-November 4.
7 responses to “Huipils, Blusas, Rebozos: Shopping for Indigenous Clothing in Oaxaca”