Koto (traditional clothing)

The Kotomisi is a traditional Creole costume ( dress) in Suriname.

The mainly from West Africa deported to Surinam slaves wore originally on the plantations only a loincloth ( Pangi ) and a head scarf ( angisa ). The Pangi is still worn especially by the Marron - women and also sold very colorful and richly decorated with embroidery to tourists.

The city has among the slaves developed a more complex clothing that was probably also influenced by the white women. This costume consists of a starched skirt ( koto ), which extends from the feet up under the armpits. A sheet or strip is attached to the waist, and the excess length is drawn into a fold ( kotobere ), which also serves as a bag, and emphasizes the hip. Under the skirt two petticoats worn. In the hard rock clothing with the help of a filled roll is bound, which makes him fail -Wide. The costume is further comprised of a white cotton shirt open at the neck, the empirical, which is decorated on festive occasions with embroidery. Instead of the shirt and a strengthened Jacket ( jaki ) is worn, that is tailored like a big circle. On the neck is cut out and has short sleeves. At the back hang two white bands, sometimes also folded accordion -shaped. Often here on a colored shawl is still worn, which is defined broadly abusive over one shoulder. The costume is completed by a well starched kerchief ( angisa ). Frequently skirt, jacket and scarf of the same fabric are tailored, this dress is in Sranan also called heri position.

This costume will always be worn on special occasions. There are Kotomisi 's in a somewhat modified form and color for birthdays, marriage, mourning ( in white ) and the work (usually in blue). The headscarf is in the garb of particular importance. The folded form carries a message. The folding is a special art that is still taught. The special type can wear a Kotomisi express a message.

The costume is fashionable today to further developed in the form and colors and also often worn by African- Surinamerinnen at dance festivals ( koto dansi ).

• Kostümkunde (South America)
• Suriname
• Women's Clothing