When Pearl River Mart first opened in 1971, the primary focus was on items from China. Bottled soy sauce, kung fu shoes, and "Mao" caps were among the first.

But over the years, that vision expanded. In the 1980s, we began carrying goods from Japan and India. In the early 2000s, we brought in items from Nepal, Indonesia, and Thailand.

This summer we're celebrating that legacy by spotlighting home decor and fashion from countries in South and Southeast Asia. Here are a few highlights.

Indonesia

Just in is this beautiful Ata Vine Moon Handbag. Handwoven by women artisans in Eastern Bali, the bag is made of ata vine or grass, which is similar to rattan and native to Bali. It's known for its durability and water resistance.

Following the 700-year-old Indonesian tradition of batik-making, these bandannas are hand-dyed and hand-stamped by artisans in Java. Each one is unique!

For your kitchen are these cheerful printed cotton napkins and gorgeous placemats and runners.

Four to a set, the napkins are soft, absorbent, and improve with age. Meanwhile the placemats and runners are made with vetiver, a strong and sturdy bunchgrass. A renewable resource, vetiver has a naturally pleasant, earthy scent that's released upon exposure to warmth and moisture.

Nepal

A longtime favorite are these whimsical paper garlands in a variety of designs. Local artisans handcraft the garlands from eco-friendly Lokta paper. This durable material is sourced from the bark of the Daphne plant, which is native to Nepal.

India

Some early Pearl River Mart items, Satya incense sticks and coils, come from Shrinivas Sugandhalaya, which has been handcrafting incense in India since 1964.

More newly arrived are candles from Scrumptious Wicks, an Indian American founded-company. Their scents include Indian Monsoon, Cinnamon Chai, and Mango Lassi.

Thailand

We have a wide range of items from the Land of Smiles, including woven placemats and coasters, vivid batik totes, handmade fruit and flower soaps, and this beautiful wooden box with intricate floral inlay.

Want even more from South and Southeast Asia? Come by our Soho store and check out our beautiful display in person. You can also peruse the collection online.