Traditional Lithuanian Costume

Lithuanian folk costumes, those originally worn by the rural population and brought to Lowell, are extremely varied and homespun. Although all Lithuanian national costumes are similar in appearance, they also differ in the diversity of patterns, color selection, different articles of clothing and method of wear. In ancient times these garments were worn daily, as well as for visiting, holidays, weddings and other occasions.

Women's costumes have more diversity than those of men. They incorporate more patterns, the colors are more varied, and the weave, style and method of wear are established by traditions. Of utmost importance is that married and unmarried women wear different head coverings. The basic pieces of a woman's national costume consist of: a long patterned or striped skirt, an apron, a shirt, a bodice in a smaller pattern or striped to match the skirt; a head covering and amber heads as neck ornaments. The legs are covered with patterned or striped stockings and shod with soft-sole leather, wooden or low-heeled black shoes.

The women of certain regions in Lithuania wear a long wide patterned sash tied around the waist and left hanging on one side. An adult married woman wears a simple or a patterned, checked (even white) kerchief. The heads of young girls are adorned with crowns made of plaited narrow sashes. From the headdress hang ribbons or sashes coordinated to the crown and national costume.

Lithuanians in Lowell have kept alive the bright clothing by wearing them on religious holidays such as Easter and other events like Lithuanian Independence Day and the Lowell Folk Festival.