This is a Lahu Nyi (Red Lahu) woman's jacket, made from home-spun cloth, finished with appliquéd bands. Usually made of black cloth, blue or green colours may be used for festive wear. The prevalence of red in their clothing possibly earned them their name. However, the origins of the colour distinctions are not clear, and not every group can be identified by the colour of their dress. Sarong-type skirts and leggings complete the Lahu Nyi women's daily wear. Thought to have orginated from China, the Lahu, migrated from Burma and Laos into northern Thailand. There are several sub-groups of Lahu in Thailand, including the Black Lahu (Lahu Na), and Yellow Lahu (Lahu Shi).
