Latvian folk dress has great importance in its cultural heritage. The importance of national clothing arose in the 1920s and 1930s, when the Latvian nation gained independence for the first time. Garments from different regions show different origins, social statuses and traditions within the country. ([Latvia.eu],2017) Latvian folk clothes can be characterized by two historical periods of specific traditions. "Ancient dress" period, from the 7th to the 13th century, and the second dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, this period is called the "ethnic" period or "ethnographic dress". Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay In the 13th century the main parts of women's dress consisted of a skirt and a long-sleeved linen shirt in the shape of a tunic, which was a unisex garment that can also be worn alone. Accessories such as bracelets, rings and brooches were created in the age of ancient clothing. The use of bronze was very common in the 13th century. During the Ancient Clothing Period, people grew flax and fleece locally and then made their own clothing. Furs and skins from domestic animals were used to make shoes, hats and belts. It was very common to use weaving or twilling techniques. The belt was one of the most important accessories, since the clothes of the time did not have pockets. The belt was used to hold clothing together and to attach useful items such as a knife and keys. ([Latvia.eu],2017) During the 16th century, part of Latvia's territory was annexed by Germany, adding some German characteristics to Latvian folk dress. And later, between the 18th and 19th centuries, bronze embellishments disappeared and many modifications appeared in the traditions of Latvian clothing. (Nationalchlothng.org, 2017) Please note: This is just one example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In the late 19th century, different color variations became available to people. Men, regarding festive clothes, began to use dark blue, brown or black, these fabrics at the time were luxurious and expensive. Women continue to wear linen skirts. The bottom layer of the skirt was made of coarse linen, but the visible top layer was made of fine linen. The most common jewelry used by Latvian women were silver brooches, decorated with pebbles or beads. They were placed on the chest and used as fasteners. (Mfa.gov.lv,2017)