Mongolian Traditional Clothing

Mongolian Traditional Clothing

Nestled between Siberia and the Gobi Desert, the land of Mongolia is steeped in rich cultural heritage, including its striking and unique traditional clothing. These garments, crafted from the region's natural resources and deeply embedded in centuries-old traditions, offer insight into the history and lifestyle of the Mongolian people.

Deel and Gown

The most iconic piece of Mongolian traditional attire is the deel, a garment that serves as both a robe and a coat. The deel, worn by both men and women, is made of thick, warm fabrics like wool, felt, or silk. It's typically fastened by large buttons or ties at the waist and features long, wide sleeves.

The deel's design varies according to region, with more traditional styles often depicting intricate embroidery, applique, or weaving. The deel can also be used as a versatile cover-all, transforming into a saddle blanket, tent cover, or even an emergency robe for horses.

The deel is often paired with a long, flowing gown called the 'züsgee.' This garment is traditionally loose-fitting, with light fabrics like silk or raw silk. The züsgee is usually draped over the deel and tucked into the waistband, providing an additional layer of warmth and elegance.

Headgear

Mongolian headgear is equally as distinguished, with the most common designs being the 'ushank' and the 'naraa.' The ushank, a traditional cap made of felt, is usually embroidered with colorful designs or appliques. Men wear ushanks, while women wear naraas, which are similar to the ushank with more feminine and decorative embellishments.

More formal headgear includes the 'khadag' and the 'deel hat.' The khadag, a silk scarf worn by men, is usually tied around the head and used as a headband. The deel hat, which can be worn by either men or women, is a tall, conical cap made of wool felt that's decorated with intricate embroidery or appliques.

Footwear

Traditional Mongolian footwear consists of simple boots, known as 'khuduug' for men and 'khuduug nakh' for women. These boots are made from leather and are typically knee-high or higher, providing warmth and protection against harsh weather conditions.

Holidays and Ceremonies

Mongolian traditional clothing is often worn during national holidays and special ceremonies. For example, on the Naadam festival, men and women wear traditional dresses, adding an air of festivity and celebration to the occasion.

Influences and Variations

Mongolian traditional clothing has been influenced by neighboring cultures like the Chinese and the Turkic peoples, as well as the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolians themselves. As a result, the designs and techniques used in traditional clothing vary according to region and ethnic group.

In conclusion, Mongolian traditional clothing is a beautiful reflection of the country's rich history and cultural traditions. From the deel and züsgee garments to the distinctive headwear and footwear, these striking designs offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Mongolian people and the elements that make their culture so unique.