This week we’re celebrating Huancayo’s 439th birthday and the festivities started off with a fashion show in the main plaza, displaying and commemorating typical Huanca attire and regional costumes of the Andes.

As part of Huanca clothing before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, sleeves (maquitos) were not only practical, but also a decorative addition to the daily outfit. Maquitos were attached to the shirt by a strip of material and easily removable, which made it convenient for the drastic weather changes in the Andes. A local university professor explained that in those times, women would knit elaborate maquitos for their partners to show their love.

How are gifts important to your relationships with loved ones, if they are at all? Do you make a point to give meaningful gifts? Why or why not?