koskevastilike

Koskevastilike is a term that refers to a type of traditional Finnish folk costume, particularly worn by women. The term is derived from the Finnish words "koski," meaning "rapids" or "waterfall," and "vastili," meaning "clothing." The name reflects the costume's association with the rapids of the Kymijoki River, where it was originally worn during the annual midsummer celebrations in the town of Kouvola.

The koskevastilike is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, often featuring red, blue, and yellow fabrics. The costume typically includes a long, flowing skirt, a bodice with a high neckline, and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with feathers or flowers. The skirt is often made of multiple layers of fabric, with the outer layers being brightly colored and the inner layers being darker. The bodice is usually made of a single piece of fabric, with decorative embroidery or appliqués.

The koskevastilike was traditionally worn by young women during the midsummer celebrations, where they would dance and sing in the rapids of the Kymijoki River. The costume was also worn during other festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Today, the koskevastilike is still worn during traditional events and is an important part of Finnish cultural heritage. It is also a popular tourist attraction, with many visitors coming to Kouvola to see the koskevastilike in action.