Fashion in the Wars of Independence

Overview

In this age of independence from Spain, dress mirrored the new nations and rural life.

Key garments and style

The urban elite wore Western dress following Paris and London fashion, and independence leaders and armies used Western-style military dress. On the pampas of Argentina and Uruguay, meanwhile, the gaucho herders developed a practical dress of the poncho, the wide sash (faja) and loose trousers (bombachas).

Transition

In the modern era, Western dress became the mainstream while the living traditions of the Andes and the pampas were carried on.