where did the poncho originate from

Full Answer

Where do ponchos come from?

The word “poncho” comes, most likely, from the language of the Quechua people (“punchu”) or the Mapudungun (“pontro”). People often associate ponchos with Mexico, but the origin of ponchos is from artisan practices of people that lived in the Andes.

Why is the poncho important to Mexico?

Having been worn by their people for hundreds of years, the poncho is closely linked to Mexican culture and considered an iconic Mexican symbol. The poncho, a well-known sleeveless garment with unsewn sides and a space for the head to pass through, has its origins in South America along the Andes Mountains.

When did the poncho become popular?

This ethnic garment popularized in the 70s is back in force and gives an authentic look to the looks. This piece has crossed time and borders to become a universal garment favored as much for its practicality as for its stylistic assets. Discover the history of the poncho as well as the good tips to tame this garment.

What is a rain poncho?

A rain poncho is made from a watertight material designed to keep the body dry from the rain. Ponchos have been used by the Native American peoples of the Andes and Patagonia since pre-Hispanic time, from places now under the territory of Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina and are now considered typical South American garments.

What is a Mexican poncho called?

The serape or jorongo is a long blanket-like shawl/cloak, often brightly colored and fringed at the ends, worn in Mexico, especially by men. The spelling of the word sarape (or zarape) is the accepted form in Mexico and in other Spanish-speaking countries.

Are ponchos Mexican or Native American?

Ponchos have been used by the Native American peoples of the Andes and Patagonia since pre-Hispanic times, from places now under the territory of Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina and are now considered typical South American garments.

When were ponchos created?

How long ago? In Paracas, on the desert coast of Peru, mummy bundles dating to 300 BC have revealed incredibly elaborate ponchos and wraps, and by that time Paracas culture had been going strong for 500 years. That's a fashion trend with some staying power!

How did the poncho get its name?

It is believed that the etymological source of the word Poncho comes from the Quechua word Punchu. The poncho or “punchu” is an outer layer designed to keep the body warm and dry and protected it from the sun.

Why do Mexicans wear poncho?

The tradition of “male only” poncho wearing, especially of particular patterns, has led to a modern revolt in fashion: women often wear ponchos as a source of pride in their liberation. In Mexico, ponchos caught on and melded with the tradition of using colorful symbols in clothing.

Is it OK to wear a poncho?

They're designed to complement outfits and look fashionable with jeans and a turtleneck. They may not have the ability to keep you warm or dry. As long as you know your reasons for needing a poncho, you'll be able to pick the right one regardless of style. Technically, there's no wrong way to wear a poncho.

Why do people wear ponchos in the desert?

The loose-fitting cloth prevents sweat from evaporating quickly and allows the air to circulate, hence help the body to retain fluids. These clothes also protect people living in deserts from hot winds and dust storms.

Are ponchos from Peru?

Poncho's are believed to have appeared in Peru in the 17th Century and since then have been part of the traditional Andean dress. Worn mostly by men, the poncho shields the body from both cold and rain and is particularly well suited for the high altitude regions close to the Andes.

Why did cowboys wear ponchos?

They used these to cover the mouth and nose during a dust storm or, dipped in water, it would bring a bit of coolness to the neck and face during the heat of summer.

What is poncho short for?

Meaning of Poncho: Name Poncho in the Spanish origin, means Spanish diminutive of Francisco; Alfonso; Another variant is Pancho. Name Poncho is of Spanish origin and is a Boy name.

What is a poncho with sleeves called?

Ruanas are a very versatile garment that can be worn with just about anything. Think about what you would wear a poncho or wrap with and that's something you can wear a ruana with. They are often worn over jeans and a sweater on a fall day or belted over a dress!

Why are ponchos worn in the Andes?

When worn, the poncho covers most of the upper body, protecting one from the cold, while still allowing free movement of the hands and arms. Weaving in the Andes is very regional, with each community or region featuring its own take on the style in terms of colours, shape, style and patterns.

What is poncho Colombia?

A ruana (possibly from Spanish ruana "ragged" or Quechua ruana "textile") is a poncho-style outer garment native to the Colombian and Venezuelan Andes.

What are Mexican ponchos made of?

The perfect Poncho to wear at the beach or on the slopes -- Traditional Mexican Ponchos offer comfort, versatility, and warmth. These Ponchos each have their own unique design and are made from Mexican blanket cloth that is made from 50% Acrylic, 40% Polyester, 10% Cotton fabric.

Why are ponchos worn in the Andes?

When worn, the poncho covers most of the upper body, protecting one from the cold, while still allowing free movement of the hands and arms. Weaving in the Andes is very regional, with each community or region featuring its own take on the style in terms of colours, shape, style and patterns.

What is a poncho with sleeves called?

Ruanas are a very versatile garment that can be worn with just about anything. Think about what you would wear a poncho or wrap with and that's something you can wear a ruana with. They are often worn over jeans and a sweater on a fall day or belted over a dress!

Where did the word "poncho" come from?

The word “poncho” comes, most likely, from the language of the Quechua people (“punchu”) or the Mapudungun (“pontro”). People often associate ponchos with Mexico, but the origin of ponchos is from artisan practices of people that lived in the Andes.

What is the poncho in the US?

Ponchos in the US are perhaps most famous as both a counter-culture symbol, as they were a favorite apparel choice among the flower children of the sixties and as a symbol of the West. Clint Eastwood wore the poncho throughout his 1964 classic, “A Fistful of Dollars” and combined western pride and Mexican influences.

What did the Mapuche people wear?

Because of the high elevations, cold weather and general conditions, the Mapuche wore ponchos as all-purpose outerwear.

Why do women wear ponchos?

The tradition of “male only” poncho wearing, especially of particular patterns, has led to a modern revolt in fashion: women often wear ponchos as a source of pride in their liberation. In Mexico, ponchos caught on and melded with the tradition of using colorful symbols in clothing.

Who were the Mapuche?

Some controversy exists about the origin of ponchos, but the Mapuche are known to be the ones who shared their amazing garment with the rest of Latin America, and with their Spanish conquerors. Skilled weavers, these indigenous people also used ponchos to denote authority.

Who said "Is that a Mexican poncho or a Sears poncho"?

The Surprising Origin of Ponchos. In the immortal words of musician, philosopher and diplomat Frank Zappa, “Is that a Mexican poncho or a Sears poncho?”.

Is a poncho practical?

As one of the few pieces of clothing that is both practical and stylish, ponchos are likely to hold their own even in an age of more form fitting, high tech styles.

Where do ponchos come from?

Ponchos have been used by the Native American peoples of the Andes since pre-Hispanic time, from places now under the territory of Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and Peru and are now considered typical South American garments.

What was the first poncho used for?

The poncho was first used on a regular basis in the 1850s for irregular U.S. military forces operating on the U.S. Western Plains. These early military ponchos were made of gutta percha muslin, a latex -coated, waterproof cloth. Ponchos made of gutta-percha or India rubber coated cloth were officially adopted during the American Civil War, both as rain clothing and as a ground sheet for sleeping. While originally intended for cavalry forces, they were widely used by infantry as well; General Sherman's Union troops, lightly equipped and living off procurement demand from the local populace, wore ponchos during wet weather encountered during the march through Confederate Georgia to the sea.

What is a poncho chilote?

Gabán, typical in Michoacán, Mexico. Poncho chilote, a heavy woolen poncho of Chiloé Archipelago.

Where are Mapuche ponchos from?

The Huilliche are the principal indigenous population of Chile from Toltén River to Chiloé Archipelago. Mapuche ponchos were once highly valued, in the 19th century a poncho could be traded for several horses or up to seventy kilos of yerba mate. 19th century Mapuche ponchos were clearly superior to non-indigenous Chilean textiles and ...

What are alternative ponchos made of?

They are designed to look fashionable and provide warmth while remaining breathable and comfortable, rather than to ward off wind and rain. These are often made out of wool or yarn, knitted or crocheted.

What are the names of the ponchos?

As traditional clothing, the local names and variants are: Ruana, in cold regions of Colombia and Venezuela. Poncho, most Spanish-speaking countries and worldwide. Pala or Poncho, in Portuguese-speaking Brazil (mainly in the South). Chamanto, only in Central Chile, poncho in the north and south.

What is a poncho?

A poncho ( Spanish pronunciation: [ˈpontʃo]; Quechua: punchu; Mapudungun: pontro; "blanket", "woolen fabric") is an outer garment designed to keep the body warm. A rain poncho is made from a watertight material designed to keep the body dry from the rain.

Where did the poncho come from?

The poncho, a well-known sleeveless garment with unsewn sides and a space for the head to pass through, has its origins in South America along the Andes Mountains. Although the origin of the word poncho is not clear it is believed to come from the Quechua puchu or Mapudungun pontro.

Who made the poncho?

Although there is contention as to the exact origin of the garment, it was the Mapuche who spread what we know today as the poncho throughout Spain and Latin America.The Mapuche are highly-skilled weavers and fashioned a number of items as well as ponchos, including headbands, dresses and shawls. The poncho itself is made by slitting a hole in ...

What are ponchos used for?

Current uses for the poncho include: 1. Rain expulsion: thin polyethylene waterproof cloaks in the poncho shape are worn to protect against the rain. A garment based on the poncho was even used as raincoats for US troops during the Civil War. 2.

What is the poncho in Mexico?

This colorful cloth is widely considered an iconic symbol of Mexico.

What is the Mexican poncho?

The Poncho. Having been worn by their people for hundreds of years, the poncho is closely linked to Mexican culture and considered an iconic Mexican symbol. donquijote. Mexican Culture.

Why do people wear ponchos?

The Mexican poncho has two distinct styles: Although the poncho was previously a traditional clothing item born out of the necessity to keep warm and protect the body from harsh weather conditions while still having the freedom of movement to continue working comfortably, it is now more frequently worn as a fashion accessory and can be found in the majority of style outlets. Ponchos have also been drawn to public attention when worn by well-known faces; for example, the actor Clint Eastwood famously wore a poncho in the 1964 film A Fistful of Dollars and more recently the former President George Bush donned a traditional Peruvian poncho alongside the then Japanese Prime Minister and South Korean President at the Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation in 2008.

What is a poncho?

2. Fashion item: ponchos are a prominent style piece during autumn and winter in western countries. Popular among women of all ages and produced in a range of designs and fabrics, the poncho is one of the must-haves in the fashion world. Having been worn by their people for hundreds of years, the poncho is also closely linked to Mexican culture in ...

What was the Native American poncho?

With the coming of the conquistadors and the destruction of Pre-Columbian South American and Mexican cultures, the Native American poncho changed gears and became both a dignified dress garment for mestizos and a utilitarian but gorgeous piece of outerwear for farmers and shepherds.

Where were alpaca ponchos made?

Long before Peru and Bolivia were exporting alpaca sweaters, their weavers were hard at work making alpaca ponchos. How long ago? In Paracas, on the desert coast of Peru, mummy bundles dating to 300 BC have revealed incredibly elaborate ponchos and wraps, and by that time Paracas culture had been going strong for 500 years. That’s a fashion trend with some staying power! The designs were usually elaborate embroideries on a plain-weave field, depicting animals, birds, flying shamans and warriors holding severed heads. Many were thought to be ceremonial. The Paracas weavings were made of both cotton and alpaca fiber, indicating trading routes that stretched from the highlands to the desert shore. As is often the case in things Invisible World, textiles were at the center of larger exchanges of culture and ideas.

What is a serape poncho?

In Mexico, it became the Serape blanket poncho worn by Mexican peasants (and Clint Eastwood). In Peru and Bolivia, the designs continued to vary from village to village, with the colors and patterns of each wearer’s home village instantly recognizable to others of the region.

What were the Paracas made of?

Many were thought to be ceremonial. The Paracas weavings were made of both cotton and alpaca fiber, indicating trading routes that stretched from the highlands to the desert shore. As is often the case in things Invisible World, textiles were at the center of larger exchanges of culture and ideas.

What were the Incas' ponchos made of?

There were even ponchos made of thousands of feathers.

What are the names of the women's ponchos?

They have dozens of names: women’s poncho, serape Mexicano, women’s cloaks, manta, shawl, mantilla, lliqllas, aguayo, gab án, pala, or ruana. They all describe the same family of garments: a folded piece of fabric (or two pieces of fabric joined together) made to be worn over the head or wrapped around the body.

Where did the ruana wrap originate?

The lesser known ruana wrap began in Colombia, where the front of the garment was left open so that the poncho moved more freely and could be used either as a coat or wrapped across the shoulders like a shawl.

What is a poncho in encyclopedia?

See Article History. Poncho, article of clothing of ancient origin, a cloak made of a square or rectangle of cloth with a hole in ...

What is a poncho?

Poncho, article of clothing of ancient origin, a cloak made of a square or rectangle of cloth with a hole in the middle through which the wearer’s head protrudes. The original poncho, consisting of a rough, brightly coloured, handloomed cloth, was worn in early cultures of Latin America. Ponchos are worn with the edges hanging ...

What is a Nazca poncho?

The style also was adapted as rain gear, made of a waterproof material, and often hooded. Nazca culture poncho depicting felines and birds, cloth decorated with featherwork, 3rd/4th century; in the Art Institute of Chicago. This article was most recently revised and updated by Kathleen Kuiper, Senior Editor.

What was the first fabric to be used for rain ponchos?

By 1953, rain ponchos and coats were introduced in a new fabric blend that was also washable- a 50/50 blend of cotton and polyester.

What is a rain poncho made of?

These are usually made of oilskin (known as slicker in America), a fabric made by coating regular material in slick oil. It was designed for those who spent much of their time on the high seas and needed something both water-repellant and durable. The oilskins had a yellowish hue after being treated with linseed oil.

Who invented the first raincoat?

Charles Macintosh was the brains behind the waterproof fabric of raincoats back in 1824. He designed rubber sheets in his textile factory, which were then used to make the garments.

What brand of raincoats is Charles Macintosh famous for?

Brands like Burberry design raincoats that have also made their way onto runways making Charles Macintosh’s design a global icon.

What was Macintosh's interest in 1823?

Macintosh started as a clerk but eventually left to pursue his interest in manufacturing chemicals. Around 1823, he was looking for ways to utilize waste products of the gasworks. During this time, he observed that one of the by-products, naphtha, had the properties to dissolve India rubber.

What was the first design of a riding coat?

The first design followed the basic pattern of a riding coat complete with inner leg straps to keep the coat from flapping open and letting any water in.

Who adopted the raincoat?

Stars like Audrey Hepburn adopted this raincoat and turned it into a fashion trend.

Overview

Types

Ponchos in Chile

Film

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