At Aboriginal Design Wear, every piece of regalia we create is made with purpose, tradition, and pride. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or attending your very first powwow, it’s important to understand the meaning behind Indigenous regalia and where it is traditionally worn.

Our handmade powwow regalia is created for people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences — and each outfit carries a unique story connected to specific traditional dances.

What is Powwow Regalia?

Powwow regalia refers to the beautiful, custom-made clothing worn by Indigenous dancers at powwows, ceremonies, and cultural events.
Regalia is not a costume — it is deeply meaningful, often passed down through generations or handmade with materials, colors, and symbols that reflect a dancer’s personal journey, family, or Nation.

At Aboriginal Design Wear, we proudly create authentic Indigenous regalia for anyone who wishes to participate respectfully in powwow culture or honor Indigenous traditions.

Where Can You Wear Powwow Regalia?

• Powwows and Cultural Gatherings:
  The most common place to wear powwow regalia is at powwows — social gatherings where Indigenous communities come together to celebrate culture, music, and dance.
  Participants wear regalia during dance competitions, grand entries, and honor ceremonies.

• Special Ceremonies:
  Regalia is sometimes worn at naming ceremonies, weddings, graduations, and community celebrations where Indigenous traditions are honored.

• Photo Shoots or Public Events (Respectfully):
  If you are invited to participate in a photo shoot, event, or celebration highlighting Indigenous culture, it may be appropriate to wear regalia — always with consent and respect.

Understanding Different Types of Regalia and Dances

Each piece of regalia is connected to a specific traditional dance style at powwows. Here’s a brief guide:

1. Jingle Dress Regalia

Dance: Jingle Dress Dance
Meaning: The Jingle Dress Dance is known as a dance of healing. The regalia features hundreds of small metal cones that create a beautiful sound as the dancer moves. This dance honors physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

2. Fancy Dance Regalia

Dance: Fancy Shawl Dance or Men's Fancy Dance
Meaning: Fancy dancers wear vibrant, colorful regalia with lots of movement — including shawls, fringe, and bustles. These dances are fast, energetic, and full of powerful footwork, representing transformation and freedom.

3. Traditional Dance Regalia

Dance: Traditional Dance (Men’s and Women’s)
Meaning: Traditional dancers honor the way our ancestors once moved across the land. Regalia for traditional dances is often decorated with feathers, beadwork, and symbols representing strength, respect, and endurance.

4. Grass Dance Regalia

Dance: Grass Dance
Meaning: Originating from the Northern Plains tribes, the Grass Dance is known for its low, smooth movements. Regalia for the Grass Dance often includes flowing yarn or fringe that mimics the swaying grass.

5. Ribbon Skirts and Ribbon Pants

Worn For: Ceremonies, everyday pride, and special events.
Meaning: Ribbon garments are symbols of resilience, strength, and identity. They can be worn at powwows but are also proudly worn at everyday events and community gatherings.

Who Can Wear Powwow Regalia?

We welcome everyone who honors Indigenous traditions to purchase and wear regalia from Aboriginal Design Wear.
Whether you are an Indigenous dancer continuing your cultural traditions or a non-Indigenous ally who wishes to show support respectfully, we are proud to create regalia for all.

When wearing Indigenous regalia, it is important to understand the meaning, wear it with pride, and represent the culture with dignity.