Complete Guide to Mongolian Clothing – The Fashiongton Post

Mongolian clothing is a vivid expression of its nomadic heritage, shaped by extreme climates, tribal identities, and centuries-old customs. Traditional garments are not only functional but also carry deep cultural significance, reflecting status, region, and lifestyle. Both men’s and women’s attire are layered, durable, and beautifully decorated, often with intricate embroidery, rich colors, and symbolic patterns.

Men’s Traditional Clothing in Mongolia

Deel (Mongolian Robe)

The deel is the most iconic and essential piece of traditional Mongolian clothing for men. It’s a long, loose robe that wraps around the body and is secured with a sash or belt at the waist. Typically made from thick cotton, silk, or wool depending on the season, the deel is designed for both warmth and mobility, perfect for Mongolia’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. Decorative trims and fasteners vary by region and social class, showcasing cultural diversity across the country.

Terleg (Padded Undergarment)

Worn underneath the deel, the terleg is a quilted or padded jacket that provides insulation during harsh winters. It is usually made from cotton and padded with wool or camel hair, offering an essential thermal layer. While primarily functional, wealthier men might have their terlegs adorned with silk linings or hand-stitched patterns. It reflects the Mongolian mastery of layering for survival in extreme climates.

Gutal (Traditional Boots)

Gutals are traditional Mongolian leather boots with upturned toes and ornate stitching. They are typically made from cowhide or goat leather and often feature bright embroidery, colored trims, and metal details. The upturned tips are designed to avoid disturbing the earth, a reflection of Mongolia’s deep-rooted respect for nature. These boots are highly durable and versatile, suited for horseback riding and walking across vast steppe landscapes.

Loovuz (Traditional Hat)

The loovuz is a traditional Mongolian men’s hat, commonly worn by herders and men in colder provinces. Designed for harsh winters, it is typically made from felt, cloth, or fur, with a rounded or slightly pointed crown. The hat offers excellent insulation and protection from wind and cold. In some regions, the loovuz is decorated with colorful stitching, fur trims, or ornamental knots, reflecting regional identity and personal status. Traditionally handmade, it remains an important part of Mongolian nomadic attire.

Sul (Sash Belt)

The sul is a wide traditional sash worn by Mongolian men to fasten the deel at the waist. Typically made from long strips of silk or cotton, it wraps several times around the body, offering both structural support and ornamental value. The sul serves not only to secure the garment but also to protect the lower back during horseback riding and manual labor. Richly colored and sometimes patterned, the sash reflects personal taste, social status, or even regional identity. Still widely used today, the sul remains a symbolic and functional component of Mongolian male dress during both daily life and ceremonial occasions.

Women’s Traditional Clothing in Mongolia

Jodgor (Traditional Undergarment Dress)

The jodgor is a traditional long underdress worn by Mongolian women beneath the outer garments such as the uuj or loovuz. It is usually made of lightweight cotton or silk, offering both comfort and modesty while maintaining warmth in Mongolia’s harsh climate. The jodgor often features delicate patterns along the collar, hem, or cuffs, and may include lace or hand-stitched embroidery for special occasions. Though not as visible as outer garments, the jodgor plays a crucial role in layering and represents the elegance and practicality of traditional Mongolian women’s clothing.

Uuj (Formal Outer Robe)

The uuj is a ceremonial overcoat worn by women during important occasions such as weddings or Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year). It features open front panels, flared sleeves, and elaborate brocade fabrics. Often paired with traditional headdresses and jewelry, the uuj serves as a visual representation of elegance, grace, and tradition. Patterns often feature sacred symbols like clouds or lotuses for good fortune.

Boovon Malgai (Horn Hat)

The boovon malgai is a ceremonial Mongolian women’s hat characterized by its tall structure and two horn-shaped side extensions. Traditionally worn by noblewomen—especially during the Yuan dynasty—the hat symbolized social status, elegance, and a connection to ancestral and spiritual traditions. The horn-like shapes are often stiffened with wood or felt and wrapped in silk, adorned with coral, turquoise, and silver decorations. While no longer used in daily life, the boovon malgai remains a powerful symbol of Mongolian heritage and is still worn during cultural festivals, weddings, and reenactments of royal attire.

Ugalz (Embroidered Vest)

The ugalz is a decorative sleeveless vest worn over traditional garments like the jodgor or uuj. Crafted from silk, brocade, or velvet, it is richly embroidered with swirling patterns that often symbolize eternity, harmony, or protection. The ugalz not only adds warmth and structure to the layered outfit but also serves as a canvas for artistic expression, with regional variations in color and motif. Frequently worn during celebrations or formal events, the vest enhances the overall silhouette and emphasizes the dignity and femininity of Mongolian traditional attire.

Orgoi Gutal (Women’s Boots)

Orgoi gutals are the female version of traditional boots, tailored with more ornate detail and slightly slimmer profiles. Embroidered floral patterns, bright trims, and multicolored soles make them stand out. As with men’s gutal, the upturned toe design signifies harmony with nature, but women’s gutals often include softer linings and added decorative buttons. They are both practical for travel and symbolic during festive gatherings.

Modern Mongolian Clothing

Today, Mongolian fashion reflects a seamless blend of ancient heritage and contemporary design. Urban residents often wear Western-style clothing like jeans, shirts, and jackets in everyday life, while elements of traditional garments appear in modern cuts and materials. Designers in Ulaanbaatar have gained global attention for incorporating deel patterns, silk motifs, and traditional silhouettes into high fashion collections. During national holidays and cultural festivals, many Mongolians proudly wear updated versions of traditional attire, keeping their heritage alive through style.