Although I’ll take a taxi if it’s raining, I usually go to the milonga on the bus. Since tango clothes can look a bit over-the-top outside the milonga, I always strive to cover them until I get there.

Some time ago, I saw a woman wearing a full length kimono with a design all over the back, and I was inspired to do something like that as a tango clothes cover-up. I thought about embroidery, but it’s not something I enjoy doing. Since I was in painting mode at that time, I decided that was the way to go.

I went to Once (pronounced ohnsay), which is the garment and fabric district of Buenos Aires—and always a fun visit—and bought some black material. I had neither a pattern nor a sewing machine, so I used another kimono as the pattern and stitched the pieces together with a needle and thread. Sound very tedious, and it was, but I did it during the lockdown while watching YouTube videos.

I wanted something vibrant and bright for the design, so I did the kind of colourful doodle I’ve been doing in my spare time since I was a child, using fabric paint. I finally finished the whole thing a couple of weeks ago and it’s just the thing for its purpose. I have to say I’ve also had some nice compliments about it.

I decided you might enjoy seeing it, so last night I got Lina to take some photos as we were leaving the milonga. Starting at the back, where most of the design is, and moving around to the front, which has just enough to keep it from being blank. What do you think?

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