2-748-261 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Woman's Dress, c. 1880-1885. In the late 1700s, Diné (Navajo) women's wear changed from a one-piece garment to a dress fashioned from two matching panels attached on the sides and shoulders. Originally gathered at the waist with a woven belt, the dresses also could be cinched with silver concha belts of Diné manufacture. After the 1880s, women reserved such dresses for special occasions; everyday wear comprised full skirts and blouses. By about 1900, European-style garments had completely replaced the native dress, which today sees only occasionsl use during girls initiation ceremonies.