Recently I’ve been in awe and wonder about all the creations in the world and all the ideas that make it a more beautiful world, and I came across the story of Krama Heritage. This young company from France is bringing to the US the Krama phenomenon. It is sweeping Paris as I am writing this article, and I’ll tell you why.
Do you know what a Krama is? I sure didn’t. The Krama is the traditional garment of the Khmer people. It is used as a scarf or a bandana to cover the face or carry infants. The Krama is also so beautiful and elegant that Raphael and Alexandru decided to make it a part of Parisian chic with a social twist.
When traveling in Cambodia, the two founders felt a deep empathy and connection to the country and their people. They also saw the aesthetic value of the Krama and thought that it could easily become a Parisian fashion accessory as well as making the people wearing it proud to contribute to a better world. Today while wondering in Paris, Raphael told me you can see people from all ages and walks of life wearing the stylish Krama and embracing the spirit of the company. “Wearing it is transmitting of the hope of the Khmer people.”
The company gives 10 percent of its revenue to a non-profit called “Pour un sourire d’enfant” (For a child’s smile), specializing in schooling and training kids in Phnom Penh. Or, as Raphael explained to me in a communication, Krama Heritage’s raison d’être is the support of social causes in Cambodia with the goal of helping people rebuild their country after a dark past. More social projects will be added as the company expands.
The Kramas are woven in Phnom Penh in small workshops. They come in beautiful colors. I love all the colors, but my favorite is rose. Soon they will be available in the US through retailers, but you can order yours now through the company’s website. It looks like they will arrive in the US within two weeks.
Through the symbolic thread of a scarf, cultures are woven together and the world is better off for it. Let’s support this company’s making an impact while staying Always in French Style.
