The huipil is an iconic garment that comes from the Nahuatl word meaning blouse or ornate dress and its use is considered a tradition of the Mexican people of Oaxaca. They are handmade on backstrap looms, and embroidered on blanket or rayon fabric. The designs they make are based on birds and flowers, and through them they express the way they perceive the world. This activity is practised by women, girls and young women. As they are embroidered by hand, there may be slight variations in the designs, which is why each piece is considered unique.