Traditional Mexican Clothing Description

Traditional Mexican clothing uses bright colors.

Traditional Mexican clothing is made of simple fabrics, with bright, vibrant colors. The original clothing of Aztecs and Mayans is different from the clothes worn after the Europeans arrived, but both types are considered traditional.

Materials

Native, traditional Mexican clothing uses fibers from cotton, bark and agave. Europeans introduced wool and silk, which also became common materials. The bright colors were made with natural components from native plants until the Europeans introduced aniline dyes.

Men's Clothing

Aztec and Mayan men wore "tilma," a type of cloak, "maxtlatl," a breech cloth worn under the tilma, and sandals. After the Europeans arrived, traditional Mexican apparel for men included trousers and shirts, as well as a native "sarape," or blanket-cape, and Mexican boots.

Women's Clothing

Aztec and Mayan women wore an ankle skirt and "huipil," a sleeveless tunic with woven designs indicating a woman's village and marital status. After European influence arrived, women's clothing remained essentially the same. Traditional dress also includes "quechquemitl" (a closed shoulder cape), "rebozo" (a shawl) and sandals.

Sombrero

Men and women both wear sombreros.

The sombrero dates back to the 15th century. Styles vary by region but usually include a pointed top and large rim to provide shade.

References

• Facts About Mexico: Mexican Clothing
• Countries and Their Cultures: Mexico
• Mexico Adventure: Mexican Clothes
• Traditional Mexican Culture: Traditional Mexican Culture and Food
• Mexico Culture Guide: Mexican Clothing