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The Plains Indians had many types of clothing. They could wear most of the clothing than actually use the clothing. Tanned deer hide was the most common material used to sew the clothing. The clothing was also made from animal skins and fur.
Men and boys mainly wore fringed buckskin shirts. They dressed lightly when the weather was warm. Breechcloths and aprons worn when hot weather by males. Men’s and boy’s clothing was frequently decorated with feathers and fur items. Men’s clothing showed military rank and membership in society. It was believed that all decorations on clothing would protect the wearer from harm. Thigh-high fringed leggings were worn by the men. It protected the legs from brush and thorns while hunting. Male elders and esteemed warriors sometimes wore special feather war bonnets. They sewed eagle feathers onto each bonnet so it stood straight and circled around the head. White weasel pelts were hung from the sides. All designs were geometric designs and were created by porcupine quills or glass beads. Some shirts were also decorated with weasel tails. A weasel tail was a sign of bravery. A grizzly bear claw necklace was worn by distinguished men that were known for their bravery. The men had loads of clothing and had something like a reward system. If one did something brave and courageous, he would get a special feather decorated with tons of artwork. This was very frequent in wars.
Women mainly wore long dresses sewn from elk hides. These dresses were decorated with geometric designs around the waists. Women carried awls and knives on belts on their waists. Jewelry was often worn by women and it included earrings and bracelets. Sea shells and beads were used to make jewelry.
Women were in charge of making moccasins for the whole tribe. Moccasins were made with animal hides and buckskin. Moccasins were embellished with beads and quill work. Moccasins were stitched with sinew. The hides of the moccasins were smoke to make it waterproof. Fur was added in winter to the moccasins for warmth. Dried grass added fortification against the moccasins.
A parflÉche was used as a saddle bag. Clothing and other items were kept in drawstring bags of tanned hide. Drawstring bags sometimes had flaps at the top. They were ornamented with quills, beads and painted designs.
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