The Day I Found The Ambla Skirt

There are some moments in life where you just know, this was meant to be. That was me, the day I found my Ambla skirt.

We had ventured into this incredible fabric shop, one of those magical places you could easily spend hours in, especially if you have a soft spot for anything Rahvariide, and I do. The colours, the textures, the traditions were just in abundance and I did not know where to look first! It was a dream... and a little overwhelming. I must have stood there for 30 minutes, paralysed by all the choices. So many reds, bold, rich, and calling my name. I kept gravitating toward them, unsure which one was the one.

Then, just as I was about to make a final decision, the lady at the counter paused, smiled, and said, “One moment, I have something.” She disappeared out the back, and honestly, I thought maybe she was bringing out another fabric roll. But no. She returned holding a ready-made skirt… in one of the very fabrics I’d been drawn to.

And it fit me. Like actually fit me. Not “this will do” fit. A “this was made for me” fit.

I was stunned, excited, emotional, even. Skirts like this usually cost between 270 and 400 euros, and that’s if you can even find one in your size. This one? 140 euros. There was no way I was leaving it behind.

As I held onto my little find, I messaged Taimi a friend of mine, who was already on her way to meet us at our accommodation. I sent her a photo of where we were and what we’d found, and the next thing I knew, she was practically running through the door. I told her if she picked some material, Mum would be more than happy to make her a skirt too. And of course, she did.

Now, about Mum… she might not know it yet, but I bought enough fabric for a whole week’s worth of skirts at Sõrve. Think one for each day. Maybe even make a few knee-length versions, something a bit more forgiving for the Australian summer. Sorry Mum… but also, not sorry.

This day was more than just shopping. It was about reconnecting with my roots, finding joy in tradition, and sharing it with the people I love. And that Ambla skirt? It’s not just fabric. It’s part of my story now. The skirt now sits as part of my decoration in my apartment, hanging over the blanket box, bringing me joy each time I grab a blanket and see my beautiful skirt.