How to Get Mariachi Accessories
Whether you're a professional mariachi musician or just want to look like one, you'll need to outfit yourself with the appropriate accessories. A mariachi band just wouldn't be the same without the traditional sombreros, the serapes and the colorful neckties. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Get yourself a pair of boots. Mariachi band members wear a pair of leather ankle-length boots, usually black, with a tapered toe and a cowboy boot-style heel. Classic cowboy boots will also do the trick.
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Add a splash of color to your ensemble with a traditional mariachi bow tie. These are much larger and floppier than the bow ties you're used to seeing with suits at formal events. They're more like a scarf tied around the neck, with the ends pointing down toward the chest. The bow tie may be in a vibrant color such as blue, red or green, or in basic white or black (often with a gold border).
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Decide between a leather belt and a fabric sash. If you're wearing a full, embroidered mariachi suit, a belt will probably complement it better. Look for traditional piteado belts, which are made by embroidering leather with thread made from plant fibers. (This is the same technique used on elaborate Mexican saddles, satchels and shoes.) Fabric sashes, worn knotted at the side of the waist, are usually bright red, but may also be black or maroon.
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Cap off your look with a sombrero. Those worn by mariachis are usually covered in velvet or suede and intricately embroidered with silver or white thread. In general, the sombrero should match your mariachi suit (black and maroon are the most common colors). To protect your sombrero as you travel with your band, pick up a "portasombrero," or sombrero carrying case.
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Get mariachi accessories online by visiting web stores like the Casa del Mariachi, Mariachi Connection, the Importaciones Mexico website or the Electrique Boutique website (see Resources below). If you have specific accessory styles in mind, be sure to ask about custom orders.
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Tips & Warnings
Get accessories in red, white or green (the colors of the Mexican flag) for a more authentic mariachi look.
