Question

Give two examples of how the physical environment influences clothing choices in folk culture. Give an example of folk clothing.

Answer 1

If we look at the traditional Spanish flamenco style clothing we can see the mixture of cultures that occured over the ages at the peninsula. For example, the color red is traditionaly spanish, but ruffle dresses are an influence of Andalusian Gypsy culture that has been inhabiting those areas. On the other hand, the style of make up with distictive black eyeliner is the influence of the Arabic culture that once ruled Andalusia and that left its trace in the architecture as well. We have to keep in mind that aside of culture, the climate dictates the choice of clothing. In the warmer climates, the clothes are going to be light and made out of materials such a silk and linen, with lots of openings,  whereas in colder areas, the clothing will be more complex and warmer.