Last post we write about all elements that constitute escaramuzas. However, we omitted the most impressive elements such as beauty and presence. Beyond the courage and audacity these women show when riding a horse, the gorgeous of their outfit is the most appealing detail. So much that, without a doubt, it is a clear representation of Mexican culture and Tequila.
Although it sounds unbelievable, the beauty of these attires doesn’t come that easy. Worn in Charrerias, these costumes are the object of a vast quantity of design and wearing rules coined by Asociacion Mexicana de Charreria A.C. (The Mexican Association of Charrerria) which must be committed by all members of an escaramuza. Despite these rules may be hard to follow, they have preserved and standardized this tradition for more than a century.
How escaramuzas must be dressed?
In brief, a horsewoman can choose among three different outfits: an Adelita, a China Poblana, or a Charra. However, there are several varieties allowed for competitions and others which must be worn just on special occasions. So, in this post, we’ll help you to identify the most common attires of escaramuzas like: Adelitas, Charra de Faena, Media Gala, Gala, Gran Gala, Charra de Etiqueta, and China Poblana.
1. Adelita
Perhaps the most feminine dress in the world of Charreria. It’s formed by a blouse and a skirt that, could be one or two pieces, and are decorated with pleats and frills. Mandatory, it must have a frill of at least 10-centimeters sewn at the bottom of the skirt. Another must in this outfit is a kind of tight belt in the waist that must have a bow and some bands. The seize of the dress must be large enough to fit until the middle of a Jalisco-style boot. Adelitas also must wear a bow in the hair and a shawl. Both elements would give her a classic Mexican touch. Finally, no attire would be completed without the emblematic sombrero hat.
2. Charra de Faena
If we were asked to describe this outfit in one word, it would be elegance. It has two versions: one with a cotton-shirt and another with a cashmere one. In both cases, the color couldn’t be anything but neutral and discrete. According to the rules, it’s better to wear pastel tones. The trick here is that metallic buttons are never allowed. Yet, the complete costume is formed by the jacket, a skirt or a pair of trousers, a hair bow, boots, a belt, a pair of discrete earrings, and the classic sombrero hat.
3. China Poblana
Despite the popularity this costume has, it isn’t allowed in competences. However, it’s widely worn in social events, informal presentations, parades, and when an escaramuza must serve as an escort. A typical China-Poblana outfit is made of a white slightly low-cut blouse with short sleeves and embroidered with silk thread, and beads; a tricolor skirt, a pair of silk shoes and a shawl. She must also wear a two-brides hairstyle adorned with three ribbons (green, white, and red). The final touch for this outfit is the accessories. A golden necklace, tiny earrings, and some bracelets would make the perfect China Poblana.
Of course! we almost forget it! No escaramuza attire would be the same without the traditional sombrero hat decorated with galloons, and fine golden or silver threads.
As you could read, escaramuzas’ outfits are as gorgeous as emblematic. They’re a clear representation of Mexican cultural heritage If you want information about where you could learn more about the tradition of Charreria and escaramuzas, don’t hesitate to read our post: Juan Beckmann Gallardo Cultural Center: Revive the Traditions of Charreria.
Last update: 18/09/2020
