Hungarian seamstresses give people hope through beautifully embroidered masks

Matyodesign is a Hungarian business, making various hand-embroidered souvenirs, clothing items, and accessories. Considering the current coronavirus pandemic, they have started to sell and donate reusable masks in two different designs: ‘flowers of hope’ and ‘the bird of hope’.

The balance between urban and country life has always played an important role in the life of Rozi Váczi, the founder of Matyodesign. In 2010, this duality inspired her to create her own brand. Váczi explained that her main goal was to incorporate traditional Hungarian cultural elements into today’s fashion world. Since then, Matyo embroidery has been included on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.

“We create products that are majestic in design, have a high standard of quality, and celebrate the individuality of the Matyodesign culture. It is our mission to keep the Matyo culture alive with ethical business practices and by creating sustainable income opportunities for the Matyodesign artisans,” said Váczi in connection with the brand’s mission.

The family business provides work to 27 local women in Tard, a small, northeastern Hungarian village, reported Szeretlek Magyarorszag. The handmade souvenirs, clothes, and accessories are now sold in 25−30 stores − mainly hotels and gift shops – and on the brand’s webshop. Although the business has shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it managed to adapt to the current circumstances.