Legacies Estate Sales & Online Auctions

Comes with a hand beaded sash we added as a belt.  Measures 45"L and the bust is 24" armpit to armpit.

Some gentle use seen, overall very good condition!

This is a Native American woman’s traditional dress, likely from a Plains or Plateau tribe, made from dark green corduroy fabric and richly decorated with cowrie shells, beadwork, and fabric trim. The use of corduroy suggests it may have been made in the mid-20th century or later, reflecting both traditional form and contemporary materials that became more common through trade and availability.

• Cowrie Shells: Historically traded items, they are often used in Native regalia to represent protection, wealth, status, and female power or fertility. The large number across the chest and dangling on cords suggests ceremonial significance, possibly worn at powwows, dances, or rites of passage.

• Beadwork: The multicolored geometric edging on the shoulders includes traditional tribal colors and patterns, carefully stitched and symbolically meaningful. The beading technique and color palette could help narrow down the specific tribal affiliation (e.g., Lakota, Nez Perce, Umatilla, etc.).

• Corduroy Fabric: While not traditionally Native, corduroy became a popular choice in regalia construction in the 20th century due to its durability and warmth, especially for dance regalia. Many tribes embraced commercial materials while maintaining their artistic traditions.

• Loose, T-shaped Construction: This wide, flowing cut is common in woman’s dance dresses, designed for comfort and graceful movement during ceremonial performance.

🚩This is a HARD CLOSE Auction!  Last minute bids do not add time to the clock.

All items presented in this auction are vintage or antique and show signs of age and wear whether noted in the description or not. We encourage you to review all photos provided and feel free to ask any questions before bidding.

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