What Are Traditional Indian Clothes Called?

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Traditional Indian clothing includes the dhoti for men and the sari for women. Native American clothing items, other than dance regalia, do not have special names.

The sari, a traditional article of women’s clothing in India, dates back to the Indus Valley civilization, which existed in 2800 BC in the northwestern region of the country. Men’s clothing includes various articles like the lungi, kurta and dhoti. The dhoti is described as the precursor to the women’s sari.

Historically, Native American clothing traditions varied according to tribal norms until after colonization, when tribes began trading clothing and thus mixing styles. Modern Native Americans refer to ceremonial clothing as regalia.