Apache clothing traditionally used deerskin, mountain lion skin, bobcat fur, and sometimes elk or bison hide. Men wore breechcloths while women wore knee-length dresses. The quality and type of material showed a person's status and wealth. Apaches would often use shells and beads to decorate their clothing. This ornamentation symbolized a person's tribe and rank.
Men's Clothing
During the summer months, and sometimes winter, men would not need to wear shirts or go naked on top. Other times, they would wear simple deerskin tunics or shirts. To protect their feet from the rough terrain and cold weather, men would often use moccasins and leggings made from hide. Apaches would also wear moccasins out of yucca skin during dry weather. During times of battle, it was common for Apaches to use animal bone shields to protect themselves.
Women's Clothing
Women often only wore an underskirt and a deerskin shawl called a quechquémitl that covered the shoulders. They would often leave their upper body exposed. They would wear high, moccasin-like shoes that covered the ankle and shins. Similar to men, they would also wear yucca skin moccasins in arid conditions. Women often had their clothes decorated with beads and shells. They also wore long earrings, necklaces, and bracelets made from turquoise and other stones.
Children's Clothing
For children, the tribe didn't always prioritize creating clothing. They would only wear clothing during special occasions and celebrations. During other times, children would often go naked. Their first piece of clothing would often be a small breechcloth or simple dress.
Cultural Clothing
While the above clothes were the standard dress of the Apache people, there were also special types of clothing used in traditional Apache ceremonies. For example, the Mescalero Apaches used elaborate costumes during their puberty rites. These costumes included feathers, jewelry, and special garments painted in black and white.