by Marisa Iglesias
Bali. Thailand. Peru. Nepal.
A simple glance at Third World Trading Co.’s hanging sign will confirm to you just how third world they are. A simple glance inside the colorful store, however, will not suffice to show you all the worldwide wonders that lie within. Just a step inside Oak Bluff’s Third World, and you will be welcomed with a whiff of fragrant incense from India luring you in to look around at all the apparel and trinkets.
Founder Lori Katsaunakis started the boutique about 25 years ago when the opportunity to own her own shop arose. Third World became a unique place on the Vineyard where she could sell the goods she had seen on her travels through Latin America, among other places.
Latin America is strongly represented in her store, as are other countries whose items and lines she has seen at trade shows. An entire corner is dedicated to Lithuania’s “Flax” clothing line, which consists of beautiful 100% linen tunics and lightweight pants.
“People come year after year for these linen clothes,” says employee Liz. And it’s easy to see why- the linens are the perfect summer wear.
Just next to Flax is a table of Indonesian scarves and sarongs bursting with bright summer shades that are “very Vineyard-y.” Across the small boutique are backpacks and wallets made from hemp in Guatemala. And in the center of the store is where the real specialty lies: the jewelry.
“We have men’s clothes and women’s clothes and some kids[clothes], and thousands of bracelets” explains Liz. Thousands indeed, from local artisans to nearly “all continents.” With everything from wampum beads and stain glass earrings to mood rings and leather bands, Third World includes a wide array of not only countries, but styles.
And as if the small store doesn’t contain enough variety, hanging from the ceiling are smooth, glass bottles from Egypt. Just to top it off, literally.So whether you are looking for a classic linen top or a bright beaded bracelet, Third World has just about everything from just about everywhere.
