Visual Exploration 2: Lakota clothing research

Clothing of the Lakota Sioux

For my research into Sitting Bull and the Lakota Sioux tribe, I researched the clothing commonly worn by Lakota when Sitting Bull was alive 1831-1890.

1) Feather Headdress

Only prominent warriors earned the right to wear a full feather headdress. There are various types of headdresses or war bonnets. They had many uses such as: to intimidate the enemy during battle, for ceremonial purposes, for protection against the elements, or to show status within the tribe. 

2) Cow mask

Masks like this one and other animal masks were used during ceremonies or given as gifts.

3) Child's vest 

This style of vest was worn by children of the Sioux tribe.

4) Men's shirt

Men wore shirts like this casually.

5) Moccasins

A type of shoe made from deer or moose hide created by the Sioux to protect the feet from the elements.