What materials were used to make traditional Plateau clothing before Plains styles became widespread?

Before the widespread adoption of Plains-style clothing in the 19th century, traditional clothing among the Plateau Indian peoples primarily utilized materials derived from their local environment.

Early European explorers documented that traditional attire consisted of the following:

• Bark: Used to create breechcloths, aprons, and ponchos that typically fell just below the waist.
• Hemp: Used by women to fashion leggings.
• Fur: Used for robes and blankets, often made from rabbit or other animal pelts. During the cold season, men also wrapped their legs with fur for warmth.

These materials reflect the resourcefulness of the Plateau tribes, who relied on the natural fibers and fauna available within their region before trade and cultural exchange introduced the hide-based garments and styles associated with the Plains cultures.1