Most people in colonial times made their own clothes or had them made by a tailor or dressmaker. Clothing was often made from natural materials such as wool, linen, and cotton. Silk and other luxury fabrics were more expensive and were typically only worn by the wealthy.
The climate in colonial America also influenced the number of outfits people had. In the warmer southern colonies, people wore lighter clothing made from cotton or linen. In the colder northern colonies, people wore heavier clothing made from wool or fur.
In general, people in colonial times dressed more modestly than people today. Women typically wore long dresses that covered their arms and legs. Men wore breeches, waistcoats, and coats.