Tibetan Costume and Attire

Tibetan attire is a direct reflection of the region’s climate and environment.  The Tibetan Plateau is known for its frigid yearlong temperatures, powerful sandstorms, and extensive grasslands and pastures. The Tibetan people adapted to their environment with warm and insulating clothing that is also suitable to their itinerant lifestyle.

The symbolic Tibetan chuba is a long coat that is both practical and fashionable. Chubas are made from sheepskin that is both durable and insulating. The coat is large and loose with big open sleeves that can be rolled up in the heat of the day. At night, an unbelted chuba makes for a comfortable covering for restful slumber.

Inside the chuba, both men and women wear undershirts that are bright and multicolored. Red and green, or orange and blue for contrast are common combinations. They also wear rainbow-patterned aprons around their waists. This spritely costume is completed with song ba la mu boots and golden jin hua mao hats.   

Accessories play an important role in Tibetan dress and include mainly earrings, pendants, belts, and hand jewelry. These accessories are heavily inlaid with precious metals and stones, and some also bear intricate engraved patterns.