When Julia Gordon and Robyn Stylman opened the doors to their flagship Hiho Batik store for people of all ages in Park Slope earlier this fall, their goal was to blend one-of-a-kind clothing with one-of-a-kind artwork. By creating an environment that’s part retail store, part workshop, the store lends its customers–many of which are families–a truly hands-on experience in the world of batik.
But what is batik? It’s an ancient form of artwork—practiced heavily in Indonesia—that uses waxes and dyes to create a unique cloth design. Because the medium must be applied by hand, every item produced is completely original. Think of it as the snowflake of the art world.
Hiho Batik founder Julia Gordon remembers owning a batik shirt as a child, which is when her fascination for the craft began. As an adult, she opened her first store in Boulder, Colorado, fifteen years ago. In 2003, Julia migrated to Miami, Florida, and expanded her business with lines for high-end retail stores such as Barneys and Kitson. Now, with the opening of the flagship Brooklyn store, Julia and business partner Robyn Stylman are taking on New York.
In a borough filled with all the handcrafted and organic materials imaginable, one might wonder what it is about Hiho Batik that makes it stand out. For one, the store doubles as a regular retail outfit and an art space. While moms and dads are perusing the merchandise (which ranges from tank tops and t-shirts to yoga pants and tote bags), little ones can hang out in the back and experiment with their own batik creations. Owners Gordon and Stylman strongly encourage anybody to stop into the store to try their hand at batiking. No reservation is required, although they do take appointments. For larger groups, Hiho Batik offers a special party package which includes an on-site instructor, a 15% off coupon to use for in-store purchases, and stickers for all guests.
What else makes Hiho Batik so unique? Because the art of batik involves manually waxing and dying cloth, no two items are the same. Plus, everything in the store is crafted with 100% cotton materials made in the United States. We think it’s a great way to introduce your family to a new form of art and environmentally friendly fashion.
Located at 184 Fifth Avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Or, check out the merchandise in all its glory at hihobatik.com
THREE GREAT HIHO BATIK BUYS
Tote With A ‘Tude: Everybody loves a good tote, especially one with a positive message, like this DJ World bag. This Earth-inspired accessory is the perfect way to bring out your kid’s inner environmentalist. He or she can rock it over the shoulder with pride knowing that it was handmade with 100% cotton, and lots of love. $40.00
Waxing Political: While Election Day may be in the past, bring voting pride to the present. Pick up this Vote women’s t-shirt to keep the election alive. This groovy shirt harkens back to the ’60s, when it was all about peace, love, and political activism. $35.00
Tickle Me Terracotta: With its soft colors juxtaposed against bold feather artwork, this long-sleeved Feathers girls’ shirt may make your child the hippest kid on the block. Available in gunmetal grey and terracotta, the shirt’s understated elegance and—as always—completely individual design, makes it a must-have for any little gal. $40.00
