During a powwow, the dancers wear magnificent and very colourful clothes, each more beautiful than the next. The clothes are called “regalia”. Each dancer wears his or her own regalia. These clothes and ornaments tell us more about the culture, traditions, and beliefs of an Aboriginal people.
Real works of art, these clothes are made of traditional materials (leather, pearls, feathers, etc.) or contemporary materials (nylon thread, synthetic fabrics, optical fiber, etc.).
Regalia are also objects related to the culture of a people. For example, they may be hats decorated with traditional motifs, embroidered clothing, necklaces and bracelets made of bone or decorated with bear claws, moccasins and medallions. They are considered sacred and are worn with honour.