The Poncho is perhaps one of the most iconic designs in fashion; yet it is most certainly one of fashion history’s simplest. Made from a flat piece of cloth with a single opening for the head, the Poncho (which dates back to Native American times) was a quick and convenient solution for keeping the body warm. Little creativity went into the design of the Poncho yet it is one of today’s most emulated styles across all corners of the globe. From high fashion to traditional fashion, the humble Poncho top seems to have a place in every man or woman’s wardrobe. If you’re backpacking across South America, it’s a must-have souvenir. It’s easy to wear and will prevent you getting a chill when the weather turns cold at night.
From Chilean cowboy duds to the indigenous Mapuche dress, Chile’s clothing traditions have strong roots in the countryside and rural culture. Put on a poncho and saddle up for this lesson in traditional Chilean dress.
Traditional huaso clothing
A huaso is essentially a Chilean cowboy. Although Chile’s rural areas are modernizing rapidly, you can still see traditional huaso style, especially the poncho, all across the country. Even city folk put on their huaso gear during the national holiday Fiestas Patrias, when Chileans gather in celebration to stuff themselves on barbecue, drink the traditional terremoto drink and dance the cueca.
A chamanto (Mapudungun chamall, woolen fabric) is a traditional decorative garment from central Chile, similar to a poncho and woven in silk thread and wool. Its entire contour is finished with ribbon edging. Traditionally, Chilean festive ponchos incorporate colors such as grey, brown, red, black, and white. The difference between a chamanto and other ponchos is their reversibility, as both sides — one light, one dark — are fully finished. Traditionally, the dark side of the poncho is used during the day, while its light side is mostly worn at night.
The chamantos gained world attention when they were worn by the 21 leaders of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation during the 2004 summit’s official photo.
The making of a chamanto demands great diligence, because of the exquisiteness involved in the weaving of the silk and wool, plus the intricacy of the design sketched by crossing the threads.
The figures embellishing the chamantos include copihues, Chile’s national flower, barley and wheat ears, blackberries, bunches of grape, fuchsias, pansies and various birds representative of the national fauna.
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