What Is the National Dress of Papua New Guinea?
The traditional dress of Papua New Guinea is a simple apron, loincloth or skirt worn with no shoes, head coverings or shirts. However, many Papua New Guineans in the 21st century wear modern European clothes, including shirts, pants, boots and mass-produced T-shirts, dresses and skirts.
Everyday aprons and skirts for rural Papua New Guineans are often made of bark, grass or woven plant fibers. These aprons are secured with a belt made from vines or bark. Simple aprons made of leaves provide minimal covering or support. Other skirts contain multiple bundles of plant fibers in the rear to create a cushion for sitting.
For ceremonies and special occasions, Papua New Guineans may wear masks, body paint, wigs and decorative jewelry, combs and ornaments.
