The typical dress for Latin Americans can have dramatically different meanings, whether you're in a village in the Andes or in a predominantly latino neighborhood in Miami, Florida. From the pre-Colombian styles of the Inca to the fashions of 21st century Latin music superstars, typical dress is consistently marked by cultural fusion and adaptation. You can trace a few elements, such as the vibrancy of colors, throughout the ages; however, from the first arrival of Europeans in South America to the exportation of Latin culture throughout the world, the "typical" fashions have gone through constant upheaval.

Traditional Dress: Pre-Colombian Styles

Before European arrival, the Inca people traditionally wore headdresses, distinctive hairstyles and thick garments made from animal hair. Women wore a wrap that came down to the ankle, cinched at the waist with a belt, and a mantle around the shoulders. Men wore knee-length tunics and mantles. In much of modern Peru, traditional dress consisted of turbans or headbands, tunics to the waist, skirts and mantles. In modern-day Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile and northern Argentina, cotton and llama hair were used in the textiles. Wraps were cut as squares or rectangles and woven using an extensive array of techniques.

Traditional Dress: European Influence

With the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, the indigenous peoples of South America had access to new tools, such as spinning wheels and treadle looms, as well as new materials, such as sheep's wool and silk. From the conquest onward, knee breeches became common among the Inca, together with stockings, shoes and hats. Open poncho-type garments became much more popular following the European arrival.

Contemporary Styles

Latin American styles have a dramatic effect on modern fashion throughout the world. Aam Glassman, the creative director of "O Magazine," prescribes plenty of color and ruffles for a female look with a Latin flavor. Shawls, or "mantillas," can add a Latin look to a simple outfit. Other elements include peasant tops, with large ruffles at the bust and off-the-shoulder sleeves; flamenco-inspired skirts; and embroidery in bright hues.

Modern Fusion

In the 21st century, the indigenous peoples of Latin America wear a blend of styles. In Peru, the "chullu," a knitted cap with ear flaps, is a staple element in the typical wardrobe. Women usually wear the "montera" hat, a Spanish-influenced style with a flat brim. Variations in the head wear often signal a particular community. In much of Ecuador, women wear a traditional wrap skirt and males wear ponchos and fedoras made of felt. In Cuzco, you're likely to see indigenous people wearing a combination of European and traditional styles; a "chullu" or hand-made woolen pants are just as common a sight as Euro-American tailored clothing.

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