mexican poncho
The poncho is part of the Mexican culture. It is with this attire that the traditional Mexican outfit is often associated. Of course, few people use ponchos as casual wear. Today, the poncho has become more of a subject of observance of traditions, an attribute for holidays and various folk festivals, events where it is important to observe centuries-old foundations.
What is it
There are several important nuances that you should know about the traditional poncho and what is predominantly offered to us.
In simple terms, a poncho is a square fabric made of wool or other natural material, in the middle of which there is a slit for the head. One side of the poncho can reach a length of 1.5-2 meters. It all depends on the size or style you choose.
- Traditional ponchos are also made of leather and knitted, so do not be surprised to see such models.
- Real Mexican ponchos are always made by hand. For this, pure natural wool is used.
- Some poncho models can weigh over 3-4 kilograms.
- The nuances of dressing and making a poncho sometimes take several months to sew one product.
- The poncho has high thermal insulation properties, allowing you to warm a person in any weather - rain, wind or snow.
- The price of a real Mexican hand-sewn poncho is quite high.
We mostly come across not real ponchos, but their industrial counterparts, which are sewn with appropriate machines.
- Analogues are sewn from a wider range of materials than traditional ponchos.
- The main feature of industrial ponchos is excellent thermal insulation properties and low weight.
A great autumn solution is a knitted poncho! With certain skills and abilities, many are able to create a Mexican poncho with their own hands.
Mexican patterns and motifs
To determine the relationship of the poncho specifically to the Mexican national culture, pay attention to the patterns and ornaments used.
They embody the whole essence of the poncho. After all, such capes can remain an ordinary cape, and not a classic Mexican attire.
You can identify a real Mexican poncho or its correct modern interpretation by the following motifs and patterns.
- Stripes, rhombuses, squares, pyramids and other geometric shapes. Most Mexican ponchos are made using these patterns.
- Skull and chrysanthemum. Somewhat strange motifs, but they perfectly embody the attitude of Mexican culture to the issues of life and death of a person. By delving into the specifics of the history of the country and their centuries-old traditions, you can find out how important the chrysanthemum and the skull are.
- cacti. The real symbol of the country. For sure, your memories of Mexico immediately evoke an associative array, where there are a sombrero, a poncho and a cactus. It's no surprise that this unusual plant is so often used to decorate traditional Mexican ponchos.
- Virgin Mary of Guadalupe. This is a special poncho decor option that should be treated with the utmost respect.It is not recommended for non-Mexicans to wear a poncho with the image of the Virgin Mary, as this may affect the religious feelings of the local population. Poncho with the image of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe is never used in everyday life. These capes are worn on special holidays, richly decorating ponchos.
What to wear
You can wear traditional Mexican ponchos with:
- Mexican hats. As you understand, we are talking about huge sombreros;
- Under the poncho, you can wear almost anything you see fit;
- In some cases, a poncho can act as independent clothing, that is, only underwear is worn under the bottom;
- Tight pants and jeans are perfect for the bottom of the poncho;
- As shoes, it is recommended to use boots, high cowboy boots;
Any clothing that has a touch of ethno style will be a great addition to a traditional Mexican poncho or its modern counterpart.
Mexico is an amazing country with a rich history and incredibly interesting culture. It is not surprising that many ideas have been introduced into modern fashion precisely from the traditions of the Mexican people. Poncho in Russia is becoming more and more popular, although they differ markedly from the true traditional Mexican capes.