Powwow dancers dress in regalia appropriate for
the dance category. This includes not only the dress or outfit worn,
but also the accessories, such as moccossins, Eagle
feather fans, hair roaches (a type of male headdress), jewellery and
make-up. Regalia is unique and sacred to each dancer. It should
therefore not be confused with or likened to a “play” costume. Powwow
clothing and accessories are created with great care and attention, and
hold deep meaning and spiritual significance to the dancer.
Regalia is adorned with various materials. Some
outfits feature intricate beadwork (often sewed by a family member or
friend), while others use ribbons, shiny materials or the use of
traditional materials, such as porcupine quills. Cotton is often the base-material for regalia; however,
traditional materials, such as buckskin, are still used. While these
outfits are beautiful to look at, powwow etiquette requests that
observers not touch or take pictures of dancers’ regalia without
permission. Often a loonie or toonie is requested and is inturn given to a Veteran.
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