Fashion Talks

Papua New Guinea, a country rich in cultural diversity, is home to over 800 distinct languages and numerous unique tribes. This diversity is mirrored in the nation’s traditional clothing, which varies widely across regions and communities. Traditional clothing in Papua New Guinea reflects the natural environment, tribal customs, and social functions, serving as an integral part of ceremonial practices, rituals, and daily life.

Traditional Men’s Clothing

Tapa (Bark Cloth Wraps)

Men in certain regions of Papua New Guinea wear tapa, a garment made from beaten bark. The material is softened and decorated with tribal patterns using natural dyes. These wraps are commonly used in both everyday life and special ceremonies.

Aibi (Grass Skirts)

In certain areas, men wear aibi, grass skirts crafted from plant fibers such as pandanus. These skirts are often dyed with natural pigments and are primarily worn during ceremonies or traditional dances.

Bilas (Ornamental Decorations)

The term bilas refers to a variety of accessories worn by men, including headdresses, necklaces, and armbands. These are made from natural materials like feathers, shells, bones, and animal teeth, symbolizing tribal affiliation, status, and achievements.

Kina Belts (Shell Belts)

Worn around the waist, kina belts are crafted from polished shell discs and strung together with plant fibers. These belts, common in coastal areas, serve both decorative and functional purposes.

Huli Wig (Feather Headdresses)

Huli wigs are ceremonial headdresses made by the Huli tribe using human hair and colorful bird feathers. These striking adornments are worn during rituals and celebrations to showcase status and cultural pride.

Traditional Women’s Clothing 

Aiba (Grass Skirts)

Women wear aiba, grass skirts made from pandanus or other fibrous plants. These skirts range from simple designs for daily use to more elaborate, dyed versions for special occasions.

Tapa Dresses (Bark Cloth Dresses)

Similar to men’s tapa, women wear garments made from bark cloth styled as dresses or wraps. These are intricately decorated with tribal patterns and used for ceremonies and celebrations.

Bilum (Woven Bags/Garments)

The bilum is a traditional woven bag made from plant fibers, often carried by women. In some cases, it is used as a garment or sling, especially by younger girls or during specific rituals.

Kina Necklaces (Shell Necklaces)

Women frequently wear kina necklaces crafted from shells, beads, and seeds. These accessories are symbolic of familial ties and tribal identity, especially during significant life events.

Bilum Bands (Ankle and Arm Bands)

Women decorate their limbs with bilum bands made of woven fibers, beads, or shells. These are worn for ceremonies and indicate social or marital status.

Modern Clothing in Papua New Guinea

In modern Papua New Guinea, traditional clothing is primarily reserved for ceremonial events and cultural festivals. For daily wear, most people opt for Western-style clothing such as shirts, trousers, skirts, and dresses. However, traditional accessories like bilum bags or kina necklaces are still commonly incorporated into modern outfits, maintaining a link to the country’s vibrant cultural heritage.