Plains Tribes Clothing

Fig. 47. Arapaho Moccasin with Symbolic Decoration.

In Plains tribes, men’s clothing was simple, often consisting of a breech-cloth and moccasins, with buffalo robes for public appearances. Women’s attire included a sleeveless dress made from deerskin or elkskin, with tribal variations in style. Hair was significant, commonly worn long, with men often featuring distinctive braids and women wearing their hair in two braids. Accessories such as beads and pendants were popular, with minimal tattooing and ear piercings. Overall, clothing and adornment reflected both cultural identity and practicality.