*If you have made something that others might find helpful please
e-mail the trek directors and we will add it. If you think you look particularly snazzy in your pioneer attire, send us a picture and we'll share that as well!*
Dressing in pioneer clothing can have a tremendous impact on the spirit of the trek. The following is a short description of what the pioneers wore as they crossed the plains. It also gives some hints for trekking in our day.
Men’s Clothing
Shirts
Men’s shirts were worn loose. They had a narrow neck-band with no collar. Plain colors were most common, but stripes or plaids were also used. For modern day trekkers, light colors will be coolest. Choose something larger than a regular fit, with long sleeves.
Pants
Men’s pants were also worn loose. Wool or linen was used. Colors included blue, black, gray, and browns, especially beige and tan. Trekkers in our day find that wool is too hot but that cotton, corduroy, twill, and canvas pants are good choices. Choose styles that are rather loose fitting through the crotch and thigh area to add comfort in walking.
Suspenders
Men’s pants were held up by suspenders. Suspenders were buttoned on the outside of the waistband, and crossed in the back. Suspenders, vests and coats are optional.
Hats
Men’s everyday hats ranged from pilot caps, straw hats, wide brimmed low felt hats, or round crowned hat. These types of hats are available at various country supply store locations such as Cal Ranch and IFA for a modest price. But don’t hesitate to look for hats at Deseret Industries as well. Modern day trekkers should not wear baseball caps. As the Wyoming wind is ferocious, please make sure ALL hats (including children's) have a string attached to the hat to be worn under the chin. It is not fun to repeatedly chase your hat across the prairie!
Women’s Clothing
Dresses / Skirts
A Woman’s basic dress was floor length. It could be plain or have many ruffles. The sleeves were full, and long, with buttons or bands at the wrist. Necklines were usually high, with buttons up the front. Fabrics were made of cotton in solid colors or small print. Bright colors (excluding neons) were popular (especially bright yellow). Blouses and long skirts or jumpers could be used. Pioneer trekkers today have found that dresses and skirts should be mid-calf so the ladies do not trip over their skirts while pulling.
Aprons
The standard apron was six to twelve inches shorter than the skirt length. It gathered at the waist and tied. The bib attached at the waist and was pinned to the dress bodice at the top two corners, hence, the pinafore (Pinned at two of the four corners!). Daytime aprons were made of calico remnants. Sunday aprons were made from white fabric and did not have a bib. For trekking today, large deep pockets are important to be able to carry different items along the trail including journals, water and handkerchiefs.
Bonnets
Women wore bonnets whenever they were outside. They were made of cotton with a deep stiffened brim and a back ruffle to protect the neck. They could be white, plain colors or a print, but they never matched the fabric of the dress. For Trekking today, bonnets or straw hats for the girls are important; they need to have something for protection from the sun.
Pantaloons
These were worn underneath the dress and were normally white. Their length was usually between knee and mid-calf. Wearing pantaloons helps maintain modesty in trekking situations.
Women / Men’s Clothing
Undergarments
Please be careful and modest in selecting your undergarments for Trek. Simplicity and items made of breathable cotton will be the best choice.
Nightwear
Keep in mind the weather will most likely be COLD in the evenings. We would recommend that participants wear a pair of sweat pants (or sport pants) and a t-shirt. They should each also have a sweatshirt to wear for additional warmth. Nightwear is to be worn only when it is time to go to sleep and only in the tents, not when we arrive at a given campsite. You will change into your bedclothes once it is time to retire to your tents/shelters and change back into your pioneer clothing before coming out of tents in the morning.
Shoes and Socks
Shoes for all participants need not be “period” style. Comfort is most important. Do not wear new hiking boots unless you have taken at least two months to break them in. Pack clean socks for each day. We recommended the use of nylon socks against the skin to protect against blistering. You may also want to bring water shoes for the crossing of the river, or cross barefoot so that your shoes do not get wet.
Items Not to Wear on Trek
Blue Jeans, shorts, baseball caps, tank tops, t-shirts, tight/short dresses, brand new shoes. Stay away from modern clothing and prints. Clothing should not ride low. Please adhere to The Strength of Youth Standards for ALL ages.
Clothing Sources
Check local second-hand stores, such as Deseret Industries, or borrow clothing. Many have had this wonderful experience before us and would be willing to share what they wore on Trek. Basic pattern downloads can be at the bottom of this page. Deseret Book is now also selling pioneer bonnets, aprons, skirts, and men's hats and shirts. A great source for children's pioneer clothing is Halloween costume outlet stores. Check during the first week of November to get the best deals.
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