Koniaków, a village in the Beskid Mountains of southern Poland, has become internationally recognized for its lace-making tradition. The practice began over 100 years ago when women produced lace ribbons to decorate bonnets worn at weddings. Later, the craft expanded to tablecloths and napkins before developing into clothing and lingerie. Today, about 700 women in the village continue this work, creating lace blouses that sell for 3,000 to 4,000 złoty ($750–$1,000) and wedding dresses worth tens of thousands of złoty. The Koniaków Lace Foundation explained that each design is unique, inspired by the surrounding nature and created without fixed patterns. The lace has been presented at Paris Fashion Week and admired by fashion houses including Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Comme des Garçons.

The survival of this tradition is linked to both skill and dedication. Producing a simple blouse requires several weeks of detailed needlework, which explains the high prices. Unlike other traditional crafts that are losing popularity, Koniaków lace continues to thrive, supported by online sales and interest from modern designers. Specialists highlight its originality, careful detail, and cultural value as reasons for global recognition. Advocates also stress that the craft provides income for local families while preserving cultural heritage. Koniaków lace has therefore become an example of how regional traditions can achieve international prestige.