Sotho Traditional Attire

In Lesotho, there are various cultures and tribes with the name of each clan directly related to its ancestral origin.

The traditional attire of Lesotho people forms a major part of their cultural heritage. And with the diversity of cultures in the region including the Basotho or Sotho people of Lesotho, the Nguni tribe of Lesotho, and the San or Bushmen of Lesotho (also the San people of Namibia), you are sure to find marks of uniqueness in this African country.

The Basotho or Sotho tribe of Lesotho form the majority of Lesotho and their traditional clothing depends on the sex, age, and or occasion to be attended. Both Basotho men and women wear the 'Seanamarena or Basotho blanket'. This native blanket is generally worn to keep them warm.

The traditional attire of the Sotho women of Lesotho is long skirts and blouses or dresses in bright colors. These outfits are commonly made with the Seshoeshoe traditional clothing if they are to attend special events and occasions.

The women of Basotho layer the Sotho blanket over their attire to keep them comfortable when it's chilly outside. Young Sotho women also wear Thethana ea banana.

Older Basotho men especially the herders, wear woolen caps or balaclavas to protect their heads from cold and dust. The men also put on blankets made from animal skin. Younger men and Basotho Herd Boys wear Basotho hats or Mokorotlo, Tseha which is an undergarment, and Sefaha sa letsopa - a necklace produced from clay beads.

See pictures of the Basotho styles here.