Monpa Tribe Clothing
Monopas Wom
The Monpa tribe is one of the most prominent tribes of Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India. The traditional dress of the Monpa is based on the Tibetan Chugba, although people generally wear woolen coats and trousers as well. The men wear a cap in the form of a skull with trimmings and tassels. The women mostly wear a warm jacket and a sleeveless chemise which is ankle length. They also tie the chemise around the waist, and accessorize the outfit with jewelry that includes silver rings, earrings made of smooth pieces of bamboo with turquoise or red beads. Hats with a single peacock feather are also one of the common style statements.
Origin and History
The Monpa are an ancient ethnic group of descent in the Indian territory of Arunachal Pradesh located in the districts of Tawang and West Kameng. Apart from weaving, the Monpa tribes have been known for their skillful wonders with wood. They have also been credited for the manufactured paper from the pulp of the local sukso tree.
Since ancient times, the traditional dress of the Monpa is based on the Tibetan Chugba. Their women used to wear striking “crinoline of cane rings” which served the purpose of a blouse which is however not a customary form of dressing in present day Arunachal Pradesh.
Monpa
Style
Costumes of these people are endowed with attractive and vibrant colors and myriad patterns, characteristic of the tribe culture. It is significant for its embellishments and aesthetic culture. The caps worn by the men have tassels and laces. The chemise worn around the waist by the women are also beautifully designed, bright colored and have motifs defining the tribe.
The hair styling of the Monpa women is very interesting. The women often tie their hair into a bun at the back or as a knot in front of the forehead.
Innovations
New patterns and motifs have been introduced which are more in tune with the younger generation’s tastes in fashion and designs. These chemises are now available in brighter colors, contrary to the initial shades of black, red, and green. Designs are no longer tribe-centric and display a modern technique which showcases how the tribe has embraced Western culture and imbibed it with their own traditional outlook.
Accessorizing
With its bright colors and bold motifs, these chemises can be accessorized the way an individual wants. In the past, these chemises were worn with large beaded neck pieces or silver rings, but now since fashion is all about understated elegance, these shirts are worn by young women as long dresses, or in shorter versions over jeans.
Another popular dressing item that these people wear is a cap which is endowed with fascinating peacock feathers, tassels and beads. The trademark is the skull cap which is smeared with yak’s hair.
Global Influence
On a worldwide platform, the chemise is worn as a waist belt adorned with trinkets and ornaments and worn with various outfits. The hats are a trend that today’s generation is following religiously, and mark a distinct style and flavor that is inherent to the Monpa tribe and its unique take on style. Several International designers have drawn inspiration from this type of dressing and have used it to flaunt their designs and techniques across the globe.
Interesting Facts and Comparisons
- Monpas follow Buddhism as their main religion
- Losar is one of their main festivals, which is basically Tibetan New Year
- The Tibetan Chugba is the main dress form, apart from their traditional trousers and jackets
- The Monpa tribe is known as the most colorful tribe
- Dragons, floral motifs and geometric patterns are the most common designs found across the various arts and crafts practiced by the Monpa tribe
References
Categories: Attires, Clothing Styles & Drapes