Experience Blog 3

Capitalism can be cool

I will admit I’m a bit of a shopaholic. Whenever I get stressed I find much solace in making aesthetic value judgements on things I don’t actually need. Most of the time I just buy stuff that I know I will enjoy looking at once it hangs in my closet, but I’m trying to be more intentional and pragmatic with my purchases. This past week I had such fun perusing the markets and trying to buy little trinkets (sometimes successfully).

In Chinchero we stumbled upon a weaving studio that had the absolute softest baby alpaca textiles. Everything was quite pricey but the excellent handicraft was evident. The women running the store explained to us some different parts of the weaving process. They showed us the production process from the collecting of the wool, the use of dyes, the spinning of the wool, and the eventual weaving of the textile. While perusing the knits I mistook a neck warmer for a cute lil tube top and then proceeded to spend far too long deciding which pattern I liked best. The lovely women had a little laugh when they heard of my idea but they graciously let me try it on (unlike soccer jersey woman - not a gracious woman). Unfortunately I decided that a warm tube top is a bit contradictory so I took a pass. I did end up buying a fun ring made with some local stones which was super cool to learn about. I usually wear gold but I opted for a silver ring so I’m now looking for more silver rings. Still very much on the hunt for a tube top (but I can realistically get it anywhere). My standards for quality however have been raised by this store so I continue to be on the hunt.

At el mercado de San Pedro in Cusco I bought a cuzquena t-shirt because I need more reaxing clothes in which I can do all my assignments. Also bought a hat to protect me from the harsh rays of sun in the day. My sunglasses were exactly the shape I like so I definitely overpaid for them. No regrets because they have allowed me to hide my gaze as I peruse the shops so the vendors don’t know what exactly I’m interested in. Have also helped me barter by making me look serious (or at least I feel that way). Decided it would be so fun to have a pair of kitten heels or ballet flats or Mary Janes. Unfortunately I like the chunk of the shoes for school girls more than the women’s shoes so I’ve been unsuccessful.

I’m still on the lookout for a sweater! You all look so cute with your sweaters and I want one too. After various attempts this week I’ve still not found anything that matches my criteria. 

• I would like something that is pure alpaca wool and not some acrylic synthetic. I’m quite particular about an itchy sweater and I find natural fibres hold up better

• But it can’t have an alpaca design on it. It’s just too literal.

• Ideally since I’m so short a bit of a cropped fit. Most of the wholesale sweaters seem to be catered to a male torso and it’s definitely not a flattering look. 

• Or I could go for an oversized fit but then the sweater can’t be cinched at the bottom because then it’s just too bubble-like. 

• I would be inclined to buy a sweater with red and not too many colours. Also I could get behind cream as the filler colour over white. 

• But I definitely want a patterned sweater and not something too simple.

• Less than $150 CAD

A scarf would also be fun! Grace, Annie, and Emma, you are all slaying your shawl/scarf game and I want to join you. Also some criteria.

• Would be keen if I could tie it into a tube top (yes this idea is firmly planted in my mind)

• Dislike too much fringe. Only acceptable if it’s a thin braiding of the fibres and no more than 5cm (and even that’s pushing it)

• Either want a super narrative piece that's a work of art in itself or something just of good quality and simple pattern (or solid coloured?)

• Can’t decide if I want any warmth from this piece of just a layer of protection from the elements.

This actually helped me find clarity in what I’m looking for. I think when we go to the weaving demonstration on Thursday I might be able to find some of my textiles. I like how I’m not too set on anything because then I feel like my bartering is more playful and I can walk away at any moment without any hard feelings. Even though it is a transactional relationship with the shopkeepers, I do enjoy the interaction with the locals and they give great recommendations for things not related to what they’re selling. Some of my most meaningful fleeting interactions where I’ve learned the most about Peru have been with shopkeepers in less touristy areas so over the next couple weeks I hope my affinity for capitalism helps me forge more pleasant interactions. That’s all for now as I have an episode of Gossip Girl waiting for me!