The typical costumes of Puebla that are preserved until the present are a sample of the importance of the original cultures in the current citizen, with special emphasis on regional cultures.
The state of Puebla belongs to the thirty states that make up the Mexican nation. Its capital is the city of Puebla, which has historically represented a transit point between the eastern coasts of the Atlantic and the Mexican capital.
Currently its cities and towns are a living manifestation of great cultural heritage.
Puebla is one of the richest states on a cultural level. This is demonstrated through manifestations such as history, gastronomy, festivities and crafts.
Among these manifestations, the textiles or clothing worn by the local inhabitants stand out to highlight their colorful ancient heritage.
The historical importance of Puebla has given it a higher level of exposure compared to other states in Mexico.
Its proximity to the capital is another influential factor. It is currently the fourth most populated state nationwide and one of the most attractive in terms of tourism.
The most popular garments are usually worn by women, who usually wear them only in certain formal celebrations.
Some men's textile sets have gained popularity over time, coming to be considered typical of Puebla.
The most representative costumes of the state of Puebla have been for years that of the Chinese Poblana and her companion, the Poblano man.
Despite the regional variety of the state, this textile manifestation has permeated all regions to rise as a unique and unparalleled set of Puebla.
Puebla had for a long time the qualities of an agrarian region, so its inhabitants became accustomed to using textiles without higher aesthetic standards.
The poblanos sought to wear clothes that could withstand the hard daily work that the countryside represented.
The high Spanish influence at the time of the Conquest may not have allowed certain aboriginal textile manifestations to last until the present time.
These pieces have acquired great importance due to the historical value that the stories around their popularization have already obtained.
Other textile vestiges, such as the elegant suits that were used during different times, have lost their importance. The poblanos have opted for picturesque ensembles that reflect the variety that Puebla reflects.
Main features
China poblana dress
It is considered the most representative female group, not only from the city of Puebla but from the entire state.
Their wearers can be seen in many places, always striking before the delicacy and attractive colors that these garments reflect.
It has a great historical load, which is worth its renown among the inhabitants. It is made up of several pieces and is a suit used by a large number of Puebla women, regardless of their age.
The Chinese Puebla attire was considered one of considerable elegance, at a time when most of the city's inhabitants were peasants and their clothes reflected their constant contact with agricultural work.
In contrast, Puebla women have historically been depicted wearing striking dresses that do not resemble torn peasant clothes.
The set consists in the upper part of a low-cut white blouse, also known as the Poblana blouse, which exposes the shoulders and part of the woman's chest.
This blouse has a large number of embroidered details on silk: floral or geometric patterns of various colors.
The lower part consists mainly of a long skirt called beaver, divided into two sections: the upper part, called the court, is made of green calico; and the lower one can be red and accompanied by other colored patterns.
For some traditional celebrations, sequins and other accessories are added to these skirts.
These main pieces are accompanied by a colored band that supports the skirt, a shawl and satin footwear embroidered with silk threads.
Sometimes other accessories are added for the face, chest and hands, such as beads and jewelry.
Much of the pieces that make up the Chinese Poblana clothing have emotional connotations according to the traditions.
For example, it was said that any woman who wore her Chinese poblana footwear, satin and with silk threads, should be considered a happy woman.
Poblano men's suit
Tradition places the Chinese from Puebla always accompanied by a man, a male from Puebla who would also wear typical clothes from the region that have become popular and remain latent today.
The male who accompanies the China Poblana must provide a fairly clear contrast between the outfits, while remaining harmonious.
The appearance of the poblano man is compared with that of the traditional charros. However, it is details in the suit that set them apart.
It consists of an ornate shirt, whose patterns and colors can vary although they always maintain their intensity.
They wear a sash at the waist that is usually combined with that of women, and flared pants that are usually black or harmonious with the upper pieces. On top they wear a bandana or scarf tied to the head.
Although they are compared to the charros, the poblanos do not wear visual and sound ornaments such as bells as part of their clothing.
A great aspect to highlight in terms of cultural tradition is the always double character that is given to the Chinese Puebla, which is not conceived entirely without its partner Puebla.
This set of china poblana and male companion can be seen in a large number of celebrations and festivities throughout the state of Puebla.
Although in some regions young women can be seen wearing striking blouses and skirts, the high level of detail and cultural formality attributed to these outfits make them manifest on the most special occasions.
References
- Barbosa, MA (August 5, 2017). The Traditions of Puebla. Puebla, Puebla, Mexico.
- Calderón, L. (May 23, 2016). Celebrations in Puebla. Obtained from I am Puebla: yosoypuebla.com
- Council of Tourism Promotion of Mexico. (sf). Puebla. Obtained from Visit Mexico: visitmexico.com
- Lomelí, L. (2001). Brief history of Puebla. Fund of Economic Culture.
- Valencia, EL (nd). Evocations about the city of Puebla. Journal of the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, 41-46.