Fashion in the Late Pre-Inca Kingdoms

Published: July 28, 2026 · Updated: July 28, 2026

In the late pre-Inca kingdoms, states such as the Chimú of the north coast perfected a splendid tradition of weaving and goldwork; feather-sewn textiles and gold ornaments adorned elite dress.

Overview

In this last age before the Inca, powerful kingdoms flourished on the coast and in the highlands, and dress reached great splendour.

Key garments and style

The Chimú kingdom added brightly feathered garments and gold and silver ornaments to cotton and wool textiles. The tunic and mantle, ear ornaments and headdresses displayed the authority of lords, and advanced weaving was carried on in the courts.

Transition

As the Inca rose around 1438, these kingdoms were conquered and their weavers and styles passed into the Inca Empire.

History of this period

Late pre-Inca kingdoms c. 1000–1438