Yet another Barefoot clone. Though not exactly a clone as Kandygs has probably been in the handloom business as long as Barefoot. While they started experimenting with bright colors, geometric patterns and local hand-spun fabric at about the same time Kandygs never quite became the institution that Barefoot is. The design and fabric have never been as creative and cutting edge however they do still offer some very attractive fabric and fabric-based items at slightly more attractive prices than either Barefoot or Selyn.
Kandygs Sarong (Rs1500) Barefoot Sarong (near abouts Rs 1850). Like all the city’s major handloom fabric purveyors – Barefoot, Kandygs, Selyn, Raigam they sell loose cloth, cushion covers, bed spreads, sarongs, stitched clothing and cute little toys which seem to be put together from spare scraps of fabric. Kandygs toys are particularly cute and affordable starting at Rs 300.
While they have outlets on the Galle Road and Maya Avenue my favorite is their large space off De Fonseka Place. It’s down a lovely little side-lane and sells not just handloom fabric but other handicrafts – pottery, wooden bits and pieces,and its all quite well priced.
If you’re in the market for handlooms and just about every Sri Lankan and foreign visitor seems to end up purchasing some at some-point Kandygs is a pretty promising spot.
