Native American Costumes
Native American costumes are something the average American sees only rarely anymore. These beautiful outfits are often worn for public ceremony and entertainment but it often takes travel and vacation time to be at the right spot at the right time to see this majestic regalia.
Even the average Native American doesn’t see the most majestic of Native American costumes anymore. Since this traditional refinement is reserved for special occasions, the average Native American needs to be at the right spot at the right time, too.
Many of us lament the Westernization of the Native American way of life, including the traditional Native American way of dress. Perhaps a little mental balancing act can help relieve some of the nostalgia for days gone by.
The clothing worn by the typical Native American today may not be all that much different from that worn by his or her counterpart from 500 years ago.
Today, as then, most of us dress according to the day’s planned activities. More often than not, these daily activities include some form of work, perhaps some travel, and some leisure activities as well. We choose to dress in clothing that functions well for the vast majority of these activities, protects us from the elements, and allows freedom of comfortable movement at the same time.
This everyday wardrobe can be as nice as we want it to be or it can be more functional than fashionable. Our counterpart of 500 years ago probably faced some of the same decisions getting dressed every morning.
Occasionally, not every day, but occasionally, we have the opportunity to dress up. Put on the Ritz. We can go all out for glamour without worrying about function. We don our ceremonial gear.
Our counterpart of 500 years ago did the same thing. Only without the Spandex, tuxedo, rhinestones, and stiletto heels.
Instead, on those very special occasions way back then, our ancestral counterpart donned his or her very special clothing that was reserved for wearing only under the very most special of circumstances. And chances are, the only time he or she saw her friends, family, and fellow tribe members wearing the ceremonial clothing we now call Native American costumes was when he or she was in the right spot at the right time.
Just like us today.
Please send any comments directly to the author, Joseph Paige.