The local police discovered that people who moved from town to town using mostly bikes don't wear any reflective vests at night because they don't fit over the ruanas, causing many accidents in the roads, so they are launching a campaign called "La ruana reflectiva" (The reflective ruana) adding reflective stripes to the popular clothing.
Ruanas are the traditional garment of countrymen in cold regions of Colombia, especially Boyaca. They are made of 100% pure new wool knitted using looms. They are soft, resistant and the best protection against the heavy cold of this region.
Last year there were 24 people injured and 6 dead in Boyaca's roads, 90% of this terrible accidents occured in the dark cold nights.
Photo: Luis Lizarazo /eltiempo.com
Traditional Wear Gets Reflective
Government Adds Bling to Garments of Colombian Workers
Trend Themes
1. Reflective Clothing - Opportunity to develop innovative reflective clothing that integrates safety features without compromising traditional designs.
2. Smart Textiles - Potential for smart textile technology to be incorporated into traditional wear, such as ruanas, to provide enhanced safety and visibility.
3. Government Initiatives - Opportunity for government-led campaigns and programs to promote safety measures and incorporate reflective elements into traditional garments.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion designers and brands can explore the development of fashionable reflective clothing that meets safety standards.
2. Textile - Textile manufacturers can research and produce fabrics that incorporate reflective properties for traditional wear.
3. Government/law Enforcement - Government agencies and law enforcement can collaborate with local communities to implement safety initiatives and promote reflective clothing.