Russia is a country with a long history and traditional clothing reflects it in many ways. Up to the reforms of Peter the Great in the mid-18th century a traditional Russian costume was very recognizable.
It is difficult to say when the history of traditional clothing began in Russia. But we know well what Rurikoviches (princes in Kievan Rus’) wore even 1000 years ago. For example, the traditional casual men’s clothing was a “rubakha” (a variant of modern shirts and T-shirts). The “rubakha” did not have a special silhouette, therefore both women and children could wear it, both at home or during holidays or “for special occasion”. This clothing was so comfortable that it had remained unchanged until the beginning of the 20th century, and now you can see people wearing it during national
holidays.
Russian women wore “sarafans” – multi-colored long dresses with open shoulders. They often wore a rubakha or other clothes under a sarafan, so they were worn both everyday and on special occasions. Another important element of the traditional women’s outfit is “shuba” (a fur coat). However, men also wore them. Due to the nothern climate, in winter, almost everyone wore fur coats; peasants sewed them from affordable furs, and rich ones made from sable, mink, and other types of valuable furs.
At the beginning of the 20th century, casual wear (especially women’s) became more practical. Women got more freedom, emancipation led to the fact that clothes became looser. Gradually tight corsets completely disappeared from the wardrobe. In secular society, the progenitors of a modern cocktail dress appeared.
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