The tradition of clothing in Russia has a long history that is deeply rooted in Byzantium. These costumes was once a part of the country’s history until the early 18th century, when Peter the Great declared that Russian clothing gave the impression of being ‘non-progressive’.
He introduced a law that fined anyone who entered the city in these traditional clothing, as well as men with beards. The public, the aristocracy, merchants, and other influential members of society switched to European-style clothing, while Russian traditional clothing was half-forgotten and only worn in rural areas and among members of religious institutions.
Today, Russian traditional clothing can only be seen by Church officials and during ethnic holidays. Many elements of traditional clothing have now been lost, although there are still some components that have become iconic of Russian traditional clothing.
Rubakha
The basic element of every Russian traditional outfit is the Rubakha, which can be worn by men and women. Essentially, this garment is a variation of the old style of contemporary shirts. Rubakha was worn as street wear for the poor and as home wear for the wealthy. The overall appearance of the garment is similar to a type of ‘oversized’ shirt because it does not have a specific size. The garment can be made from different materials ranging from inexpensive cotton to expensive imported silk.
Kaftan
The word ‘kaftan’ came to Russia from the Middle East, but this element of clothing became so common with Russian clothing that it is considered a local garment. It is usually made using expensive textiles with lots of embroidery and decorations. The kaftan is analogous to the modern-day coat and is worn over other clothing.
Sarafan
Sarafan was the main garment for women in the old days. This long dress was often worn over a Rubakha and could be used for both everyday and special occasions. The most common colors used for sarafan are red, light blue, dark blue, wine, and white. Sarafan dresses are often decorated with intricate embroidery.
Shuba
Shuba can be said to be the only element of Russian traditional costume that has survived for centuries and is still popular today given the extreme climate conditions of Russia. Shuba, which means fur coat in Russian, is a type of essential clothing for Russian men and women.
In ancient times, the technique of assembling fur coats was different from what exists today. The fur was left on the inside of the coat while the outside was decorated with colorful textiles. Today, shuba designs have evolved to keep up with modern fashion, but they still meet their main purpose, which is to keep Russians warm during the long and cold winter.
Kokoshnik
Kokoshnik is a headpiece and hair ornament that is also an important part of Russian society that can be worn by both men and women. For female users, the way of styling the hair using kokoshnik can describe many things, such as marital status. Young women can show off their hair styled in a single braid decorated with flowers and other elements.
On the other hand, married women are not allowed to show their hair in public, so they cover their heads with different decorations.
- Russian clothing tradition has deep Byzantine roots, largely forgotten since Peter the Great’s 18th-century decree banning traditional attire.
- This led to the decline of Russian costumes, with European styles preferred by society's elite and traditional dress relegated to rural regions and religious contexts.
- Nowadays, traditional clothing is mainly seen on Church officials or during ethnic holidays, with many elements lost.
- Key garments include the Rubakha, an oversized shirt for all, and the kaftan, a luxurious, embroidered outer garment resembling a modern coat.
- Traditional long dress for women, worn over a Rubakha; suitable for everyday and special occasions; common colors include red, blue, wine, and white; often features intricate embroidery.
- Fur coat essential for men and women, vital for Russia's cold climate; has evolved from historical designs with fur inside and colorful textiles outside to modern styles while ensuring warmth.
- Headpiece and hair ornament for both genders; indicates marital status through hair styling; young women display hair with decorations, while married women cover their heads.
Byzantine Roots and Decline
European Influence
Modern-Day Traditional Clothing
Key Garments
Sarafan
Shuba
Kokoshnik
