Trek Clothing

CLOTHING

Dressing in pioneer clothing can have a tremendous impact on the spirit of the trek. All participants are asked to be in pioneer dress during the Trek. This is not intended to be expensive or to create competition. Simple pioneer clothing will help draw a closer connection with the early pioneers.

Clothing Sources


Clothing can be purchased, borrowed, bought at second-hand stores and adapted, or handmade. Look for Butterick and McCall’s pioneer costume patterns. Bonnet and dress patterns can be found on the internet. These are some other suggestions for making your own clothing.


Pioneer Skirt Tutorial


Pioneer Apron Tips


Pioneer Bonnet From a Pillowcase

15-Minute Men's Pioneer Shirt

Neck Cooler



“Clothing styles and fabrics need to be appropriate for the anticipated climate and weather conditions to help avoid overheating—or to stay warm. Ideally, young women’s blouses should be lightweight and long-sleeved, and their skirts should reach the midcalf, with bloomers or shorts underneath to prevent chafing. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and comfortable, loose-fitting pants are recommended for young men. Cotton fabrics are generally recommended.”


CLOTHING FOR MA'S AND GIRLS

  • 2 or 3 long-sleeved, long dresses or long skirts

  • 2 or 3 long-sleeved blouses. It is best if sleeves can be rolled up

  • 1 pioneer-style bonnet or broad-brimmed hat

  • 2 pairs of bloomers, pantaloons, or lightweight knee-length bike or running shorts for chafing (very important)

  • 1-2 apron(s) or pinafore

  • 1 pair of pajamas


Women’s Clothing

  • Dresses
    Women’s basic dresses were floor length and plain to many ruffles. Sleeves were full, and long, with buttons or bands at the wrist. Necklines were usually high, with buttons up the front. Fabrics were cotton in solid colors or small print. Bright colors were popular (especially bright yellow). Blouses and long skirts or jumpers could be used. For trek, dresses and skirts at mid-calf or above the top of a hiking boot are best to not trip.

  • Aprons
    Aprons were six to twelve inches shorter than the skirt length, gathered at the waist and tied. The bib is attached at the waist and pinned to the dress bodice at the top two corners, hence, the name pinafore (Pinned at the front!). Daytime aprons were made of calico remnants. Sunday aprons were made from white fabric and did not have a bib. For trekking, large, deep pockets are important to carry items along the trail.

  • Bonnets
    Women wore bonnets whenever they were outside. They were made of cotton with a deep stiffened brim and a back ruffle to protect the neck. They could be white, plain colors or a print, but never matched the fabric of the dress. Today, bonnets or straw hats are important for protection from the sun.

  • Pantaloons
    Worn underneath the dress and were white. Usually between the knee and mid-calf. Trekkers could use scrubs or pajama pants hemmed shorter. Pantaloons help prevent chafing and maintain modesty in trekking. (NO JEANS-they are too tight, hot, and don’t “breathe”)


CLOTHING FOR PA'S AND BOYS

  • 3 long-sleeve button-up shirts, cotton is encouraged

  • 3 pairs of long cotton pants – NO LEVIS / JEANS

  • 1 brimmed hat – NO BASEBALL CAPS

  • 1 pair of pajamas

  • Vest or suspenders are optional


Men’s Clothing

  • Shirts
    Men’s shirts were worn loose with a narrow neck-band with no collar. Plain colors were common, but stripes or plaids were also used. For trek, light colors are cooler. Choose a larger than a regular fit, with long sleeves.

  • Pants
    Men’s pants were wool or linen and worn loose. Colors included blue, black, gray, and brown, especially beige and tan. Trekkers find that wool is too hot, but cotton, corduroy, twill, and light-colored canvas pants are good choices. Styles with a loose fit through the crotch and thigh give comfort in walking.

  • Suspenders
    Men’s pants were held up by suspenders that were buttoned on the outside of the waistband and crossed in the back.

  • Hats
    Men’s everyday hats ranged from pilot caps, straw hats, wide-brimmed low felt hats or round crowned hats. Trekkers should not wear ball caps.

  • Vests/Ties
    Were usually worn only on Sundays or to meetings or social events. Ties were small, black, and silky, wrapped around the neck once and tied in the front with a square knot.