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The Virtual Museum of Namibian Fashion

Museum of Namibian Fashion

Historical Namibian Fashion

The Virtual Museum of Namibian Fashion is divided into seven Galleries. The galleries are organised according to the different materials that are used to make clothing and accessories. The focus of these galleries is on historical items.

01 Bracelets

Beads & Shells

Ostrich eggshell beads and shells from near and far were a highly valued accessories

Wigs, Hairdresses and Heads

Hair & Heads

Historical hairstyles and items worn on the head often carried important meanings

Leather & Skin Processing

Leather & Skin

Leather and Skin as a Marker of Social Status

Metal Acessroeis

Metal Acessories

Works of metal have been used for various reasons by the different communities

Plants, bones and rocks

Plants, Bones & Rocks

Organic materials have been used to adorn the body

Tattoos & Scars

Tattoos & Scars

Scarifications and tattoos are worn for different reasons

Textiles

Textiles

Woven fabrics were introduced through trade from the early nineteenth century

Namibian Fashion Today

Two additional galleries have been added that show the way in which traditional’ outfits continue to shape the identity of Namibians today. One is the Peoples’ Gallery’ which consists of photographs shared by visitors to the museum, whilst the other, `Deep Roots, New Fashion’ showcases the work of new Namibian fashion designers who draw on our cultural roots to create outfits for the present and the future.

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