From beautifully embroidered garments to carefully handcrafted jewellery, we look at the main traditional clothing items donned by Xhosa men and women.
On special occasions, Xhosa men don umbhaco, a knee-length wraparound skirt. Umbhaco is available in various colours, such as black and white, red, blue and black, and cream mustard.
Isidinga a necklace consisting of strings of beads, is worn across the upper part of the body. Alternatively, a long embroidered rectangular cloth is thrown over the shoulder.
To add the finishing touch, beads known as amaso are worn around the wrists and foot, and a headgear known as umngqa or igwala.
Xhosa women also wear a skirt or dress (umbhaco) and a headscarf called iqhiya. This tribe is known for its beautiful beadwork. Multi-coloured beaded neck pieces and arm and ankle bracelets make any Xhosa attire look beautiful.
Women can decorate their faces by drawing dotted patterns.
In the Xhosa culture, how women wear their attire says a lot. If a headscarf (iqhiya) veils the eyes, you can tell the woman is married. Virgins are free to wear a short skirt, while non-virgins and elders are expected to cover up.
Witness some of the Xhosa culture on Igazi, Mondays at 21:30 on Magic Showcase channel 143.
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