Mongolian Woman's Robe

The basic garment for Mongolian men and women was the del, a long robe with an over flap in the front. The form and ornament of the del differed for men and women, for summer and winter, for everyday and ceremonial wear, and for ethnic or social group. This del provides an example of a formal robe worn by married woman of the Khalkha tribe. The distinctively sculpted shoulders are created by inserting a bamboo or willow twig into the top of the pleated sleeve. A Khalkha woman's ensemble also would include a sleeveless vest worn over this robe, a hat, shoes with embroidered and appliqu ornament, and elaborate jewelry.