Cherokee Indians first appeared in southeastern United States over 14,000 years ago. Cherokee Indian clothing and accessories were taken from nature—nothing was wasted. Animals were not only used for nourishment, their hides and fur were transformed into the clothing cherokee used for winter warmth. After the introduction of the European colonists, clothing for the cherokee indians began to take on a more modern twist.

Women and Childrens Clothing

Traditional Cherokee Indian clothing for the women, men and children were made of either leather, woven mulberry bark or other types of fiber. Cherokee women’s skirts were sometimes woven from native plants. Skins from animals, usually deer, were tanned and made into clothing cherokee provided for the members of the Cherokee tribe. The same animal often served as food as well as a warm fur coat. Although this Native American tribe only wore feathers during special occasions, the women would often make capes with feathers sewn into them. Cherokee Indian women would sometimes wear earrings and colorful beads made from clay and shell.

During the hot summer months, the children wore very little clothing. Cherokee Indian clothing was made by the women of the tribe; however, the men were usually the moccasin menders. Because long hair was considered beautiful by the Cherokee, the women would only cut their hair if mourning the loss of a loved one.

Cherokee Mens Clothing

The same methods used in making clothing for other Cherokee Indian family members were used for the men. Deer hides were made into loin cloths for the men and boys to wear during summer months. Leathers and other woven materials were used to make breeches or leggings, shirts, vests and robes for the men. The Cherokee Indian men rarely wore feathers. The men only wore feathers during times of war or while playing a ball game that is similar to today’s La Cross. In preparation of war, special Cherokee Indian clothing was often prepared—all of which were dyed a deep red. The shirt, belt, leggings, garter and moccasins were all dyed the same deep red color. They often painted their faces and body. Needles made from turtle and fish bones were used to make tattoos for men–and sometimes women–using natural dyes.

European Influence on Cherokee Style

After colonization, the European style of clothing rubbed off on the Cherokee people. They turned this style of dress into their own by creating beaded jackets, fuller skirts using ribbons, and turbans with feathers. The Cherokee Indian clothing took on a different look for the men—resembling the attire of the white settlers. Cherokee men began wearing cotton shirts and trade coats. The Cherokee women were wearing shawls and tear dresses. The Cherokee tear dress was fashioned after the long, colonial dresses of the white woman and was made of cotton calico. Most tear dresses had a dark background with lighter colored shapes scattered throughout the fabric. Exquisite and elaborate feather headdresses were worn by the Cherokee men to impress tourists.

Today, Cherokee Indians wear the same clothing as other Americans. In observance of their rich heritage, Cherokees wear the traditional wardrobe of their ancestors and stunning costumes during times of celebration and ritual.