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The impressive war bonnet of the Plains Indians is perhaps the most widely known piece of North American Indian regalia. Equally splendid, however, are the warshirts, leggings, robes, and moccasins that were also worn. In this valuable reference Robert Hofsinde, the noted Indian expert, describes selected examples of dress from ten representative tribes. Many of them are illustrated in detail.
The costumes of each Indian group- whether designed for war, ceremonies, or everyday use-had a distinctive style. The Apache wore a high-topped moccasin, reaching to the knees. The Blackfeet made their leggings from a Hudson's Bay blanket instead of buckskin. The Crow were fond of adorning their riding gear as well as their own attire with beadwork. In battle, the Northwest Coast Indians donned wooden armor. The early Seminole ornamented their bodies liberally with tattoos.
Not only does the author show what the typical Indian costumes looked like, he explains where possible how they were made. Thus the book is both a practical guide and a handsome presentation of a native Indian art.
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