Evolution Of The Traditional South African Clothing Styles
Social status of an individual in the community played a huge role in the way one can dress and what kind of materials to use. Customary South African clothing usually is spotted with bright colors across the different tribes. The colors were usually a visual display of the ranking of the individual in relation to the other community members.
The most recognized tribe is the Zulu who are easily identified by their richly multi colored garments especially when it comes to the woman's outfits. This was especially important for the single ladies to be easily identified and gave the men a visual confirmation of their status before been approached. Married women wear less colorful attire accessorized by a shawl and hat called 'ibhayi' and 'isicholo' respectively.
Xhosa single women get away with been bear breasted and only cover up using colorful necklaces and short skirts. Their male counterparts throw on bright blankets and wear conical-shaped hats as a status symbol. The mode of dressing is handed down from generation to generation.
Scottish skirts are usually worn by venda men and are usually made out of long strands of grass sewn together tightly. Preferred accessories include use of feathers on the arms and elbows especially during those special occasions. A Loin fabric was made out of either grass or a patch of leather was worn by the women depending on their age and marital status.
The Afrikaner community on the other hand wore every day clothes consisting of trousers and shirts for the men and skirts for the ladies. During special occasions they wear ravish garments made out of silk and other fine materials. The garments are accessorized with broad brimmed hats for the male folk and the Voortrekker bonnet for the women.
South African clothing tradition has come a long way and still remains relevant in the fashion industry. It serves as a source of inspiration particularly in the search for a national dress. For one to get to know they have to look at their past and that is what these rich traditions offer to the fashion world.
The most recognized tribe is the Zulu who are easily identified by their richly multi colored garments especially when it comes to the woman's outfits. This was especially important for the single ladies to be easily identified and gave the men a visual confirmation of their status before been approached. Married women wear less colorful attire accessorized by a shawl and hat called 'ibhayi' and 'isicholo' respectively.
Xhosa single women get away with been bear breasted and only cover up using colorful necklaces and short skirts. Their male counterparts throw on bright blankets and wear conical-shaped hats as a status symbol. The mode of dressing is handed down from generation to generation.
Scottish skirts are usually worn by venda men and are usually made out of long strands of grass sewn together tightly. Preferred accessories include use of feathers on the arms and elbows especially during those special occasions. A Loin fabric was made out of either grass or a patch of leather was worn by the women depending on their age and marital status.
The Afrikaner community on the other hand wore every day clothes consisting of trousers and shirts for the men and skirts for the ladies. During special occasions they wear ravish garments made out of silk and other fine materials. The garments are accessorized with broad brimmed hats for the male folk and the Voortrekker bonnet for the women.
South African clothing tradition has come a long way and still remains relevant in the fashion industry. It serves as a source of inspiration particularly in the search for a national dress. For one to get to know they have to look at their past and that is what these rich traditions offer to the fashion world.
