A centuries-old traditional garment, the Mongolian deel symbolizes Mongolia’s rich cultural legacy and classic style. The history, customs, and way of life of the Mongolian people are reflected in this exquisite robe-like dress, which is much more than just a piece of apparel. 

With time, the deel, worn by urbanites and nomads, has evolved without losing its core characteristics. 

Its design is both functional and symbolic and is designed to withstand the severe weather of Mongolia’s wide steppes. Moreover, it is embellished with elaborate designs that represent regional identity, social standing, and individual preference. 

The deel still has a place in contemporary Mongolian culture today, fusing traditional craftsmanship with modern design. This renowned ensemble showcases Mongolia’s enduring spirit and artistic inventiveness and acts as a bridge between the past and present in festivals and daily life.

Mongolian Deel’s Rich History

Foreigners have been drawn to the traditional Mongolian deel since ancient times because of its unique and vibrant style. Medieval European explorers wrote, “It is amazing that this nation has invented an outfit that fits all seasons and climate, well thought out for personal needs, and used for many different purposes.” 

The deel is still a very unique and striking costume for non-Mongolians. 

The fact that Queen Amidala, a character from the renowned Hollywood epic film Star Wars, appears on screen completely clothed in a married woman’s fictitious Mongolian outfit that the film’s creators devised is one piece of proof.

According to researchers, the deel began more than thousands of years ago during the Hun era. In “Noyon-Uul” mountain, deels with braided edges have been discovered during the excavation of Hun burial mounds.

In 1252, the Hubilai (Kublai) khan of the Mongolian Yuan Empire enacted national legislation on deel and its manners. To distinguish deels from common Mongolians, this law regulated their patterns, hues, decorations, and textiles. White fabric deels, which stood for the hue of joy and greatness at the time, were worn by Mongolian khans.

Among the aristocrats of the several countries unified under the Mongolian Yuan Empire, practical and exquisite deels and similar outfits gained much popularity. 

For instance, pro-Mongolian military leaders and aristocrats in Korea have included the deel in the traditional Korean clothing known as the “Hanbok” for about a century, during which time the Yuan Empire solidified Korea as a tributary state. Additionally, the deel was mandated to be worn by Korean officials, military people, and lords who loved Mongolians.

Following Manchurian rule in the early 1700s, Mongolians were compelled by Manchurian kings to wear deels with extremely long cuffs. The intention was to disparage Mongolians regardless of whether they resembled four-legged animals. However, it is stated that Mongolians have readily embraced the practice of folding the cuffs to wear such patterns normally. 

As the protectors of the house and fire, married women were also given special clothing during the period that had the following shape, which represented the wings of the mythical bird Khangarid. 

Relevance and fit of a Deel

The deel is made to accommodate all body movements, making it incredibly convenient for herders to carry out their daily responsibilities while riding horses. A sash, made of bright cloth and stretches several meters, is used to belt a deel. Its purpose is to shield the kidneys from harmful vibrations that riding horses may generate. A corset or a hanger for firestones, knives, cups, and other accessories are two further uses for the sash. On the other hand, a deel’s upper section, located above the sash, can also be utilized as a large pocket, which is perfect for securely storing small items.

As a result, a deel is a valuable garment that symbolizes the Mongolians’ nomadic way of life. Numerous ethnic groups, including the Khalkh, Zakhchin, Durvud, Uriankhai, Buryad, Barga, and Torguud, among others, call Mongolia home. Additionally, the deel’s color scheme, ornamental accents, and attire vary depending on the ethnic group.

Besides, deel designs also differ according to their intended usage, for men or women, in cold or hot climates, or for special events or daily use. 

For example, deels made for special occasions are more colorful than normal, made of pricey materials like silk, and are typically worn during Mongolian holidays, festivals, and ceremonies like Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) and Naadam (Independence Day Festival).

Deel and Fashion

Mongolian Deel Fashion From The Past

Designers point out that there are many different traditional ways to stitch and that deel has unique sewing patterns. The primary components of deel are altered by contemporary designers to produce new styles.

By skillfully fusing history and contemporary style, the Mongol deel has established a position for itself in the rapidly evolving fashion industry. Younger generations in Mongolia currently prefer red and golden deels, which indicates a liking for these visually beautiful and harmonious hues. Modernized versions of the traditional deel, which combine respect for tradition and modern fashion with distinctive features like sable lancing, are how they display their personality and sense of style.

Mongolian designers and craftspeople create avant-garde apparel by fusing traditional patterns, materials, and hues with contemporary fashions. These modern deels, which come in varieties like the nekhii deel and sawkhin deel and are made of fur and leather, satisfy fashion demands throughout the year. 

As a result, the Mongolian deel keeps developing, combining the strength of heritage with the spirit of modernity.

In the end!

An enduring representation of pride in culture and customs is the Mongolian deel. Its continued appeal demonstrates its adaptability and capacity to hold onto its historical relevance while adjusting to changing circumstances. The deel is a beloved symbol of Mongolian culture, whether it is worn as a declaration of identity or during special rituals. 

We pay tribute to the craftsmanship and tenacity of the Mongolian people by honoring this traditional dress, guaranteeing that the deel will continue to inspire and unite generations to come. The deel’s rich history serves as a reminder of the beauty that may be found in maintaining cultural customs even as fashion changes.