Figure 1.--This photo was taken in the mountains of Khövsgöl Province in northern Mongolia. The population here is still nomadic. During the summer, children were often left unclothed. It was believed that it was useful for hardening them up. We are not sure what the impact of this was. Did weaker children die? And did those who lived have better health.

Traditional Mongolian clothing emerfged from tyhe vast Asian Steppe. They protected the Mongolian people from thev harsh harsh Steppe climate. The garments could express beauty through detailed embroidery, bright colors, and even precious stones. These garments over time wove togther culture and survival. There were 10 principal traditionl Mongolian garments with variations evolving over time and because of ethnic diversity. There were differences for men and wome, but children for the most part wore scaled-down versions of their parents dress. Mongolian garments were designed for both practicality and symbolic meanings. They have been preserved by festivals and continued popularity for special occasions. The basic garment was a robe--the deel. This was essentially what medieval men and women wore. The Mongolian deel was designed for cold weather. There was a light-weight summer vesion--the terleg. Headwear was the loovuz, one with felt and fur. The gutul were traditional boots. There were also beautifully crafted belts, sashes, and winter fur coats. Women wore female vesions of the deel. There was also woman's version of the terleg. Women also wore a short jacket--the khantaaz. Head pieces, head dresses, and jewelry were imprtant for wonen who also wore sashes and aprons.

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9:46 PM 10/25/2025
Last updated: 9:46 PM 10/25/2025