Retro

[Tom Iron Eagle]

A Post about Roaches, Mandans, etc. that I did started to make me think.

I am sure that many have noticed that the American Indian Powwow Fashion has many similarities to the regualr fashion industry. Such as abrupt changes, what is in and out, and the bringing back of older styles or retro.

Well The Retro Look is in for the Powwows.

Just this past year of 2003 I have noticed the Retro look of:

Pheasant Feather Butstles and Arm Wheels - a look before the 40s for both Chicken and Traditional Style.

Fancy Dance Leg Wheels - small wheels worn at the knee - a look common around the 20s and 30s.

Dyed Long Johns - instead of leggings - a look used as far back as the 19th Century.

Short Fringe - the really short 2-4 inch fringe on aprons, yokes, etc. - going back to the 1890s.

Dance Bell Harness - all the bells on the harness much like used for the horse, worn lengthwise down the leg - also used in the late 19th Century.

Feather Crest Headresses - a crest of feathers instead of a roach - seen as late as the 1890s.

Not sure if any of these Older Styles will make a big comeback or not but it is great kind of neat to see them.

Any other Older Things that you have noticed?

[Tom Iron Eagle]

Any Responses

For all the Fancy Dancers:

Was wondering if any of you use a retro look?

Feather Crests, Bell Harnesses, Leg Wheels to match your arm wheels or something else from the past.

[Bingo_Orphan]

I try and keep to a minimum my fringes. It shows more leg and footwork movements but what the crowd likes is all that long drapey fringe. I also use horse hair on my bustles. That's about at retro as I can handle.

I do occasionally see a fancy dancer out in California still use the feather crest on his head. He must be about 60 years old at least. I always thought that was cool. But I don't know if I'd have the courage to bring that one back. Who knows!?