Vintage Szekely Hungarian Transylvanian Traditional Hand Made Folk Skirt

Rare find: Older woman’s handmade folk skirt from the Hungarian Szekely minority region of Transylvania, Romania. Woven in subtle horizontal pattern, the threads appear wrapped—I was once told that this is a special technique, but I’ve forgotten the details. Szekelyfoldi skirts are distinct for their tiered structure, formed here by a horizontal pleat at the lower hip & loose vertical pleating accented by brown satin ribbon bows. 4 rows of the same brown satin ribbon accentuate the hem. Gold metallic threads run vertically throughout. A horizontal pleat near hem gives additional weight & body. Gathering is fuller at back waist, with the front flatter but still somewhat gathered; front is meant to be covered with an apron, but looks fine worn without. Narrow waistband closes with 2 heavy hooks. Skirt is quite heavy & full, but moves fluidly. The skirts for younger women, often in red & black or other bright striped fabric, depending on village, are easier to find. But this skirt in the subdued colors of an older woman are quite rare. I have a similar skirt in the same colors that I was told is a widow’s skirt. Measurements, laid flat (in inches) Across waist 12 (24 waist) Across hips Free Total length 27 Total skirt circumference around hem 140 Marked Size: None, see measurements; approx. XS/S Condition: Good condition, wearable as is—no holes, tears, or stains, but a 1" area where fabric is a little thinner; some light wear at waist, occasional loose threads.