Summer outfit, Gwich'in type, late 19th century
Tunic, moccasin-trousers, mittens, hood, knife sheath.
Canadian Museum of Civilization VI-I-73a-f

In materials, pattern, and decoration, this outfit is a fine example of traditional Dene clothing. The garments are made of tanned caribou hide, sewn with animal sinew thread, and decorated with dyed porcupine quills. As seen on this example, the lower edges of men's shirts were often cut to a point front and back; this provided protection from the wind and something to sit on, while the high cut at the side of the leg allowed a hunter to walk freely. For the lower garment, the footcovering was combined with a trouser, resulting in a garment that not only provided warmth, but also excellent protection from insects.

Summer tunic (back view), Gwich’in type, ca. 1870. Canadian Museum of Civilization VI-Z-10