Mocs, which stands for moccasins, are made by Native American communities and are usually handmade, and are a traditional item of footwear for many tribes all over the United States. Native Americans have been making, and wearing, mocs for centuries and they have an integral part to play in many Native American cultures and lifestyles. In this article, we will have a look at what mocs are, where they come from, how they are crafted and the significance of the moc for many Native American communities.
What are Mocs?
Mocs are a traditional type of shoe worn by Native Americans. They are distinctive because they are low-cut, with no back, and created from leather, suede and fabrics. Mocs are often decorated with beading and embroidery, sometimes with a painted design on them, and they may also feature a rubber sole. Mocs were often fringed and crafted from tanned hide, usually of deer or elk, or different types of cloth. Different tribes had their own designs and distinct color combinations which were traditionally used to identify different tribes.
Where Do Mocs Come From?
Mocs were originally crafted by the indigenous communities of North America and date back centuries. Different tribes had their own individual style of mocs and the designs and construction varied from place to place.
The earliest documented mocs were made by the tribes that lived in the Great Lakes region around 900 AD. Later, French explorers and fur-traders adopted styles from the Native Americans and began making more of the mocs during their early expeditions. By the 1700s, mocs had become a widespread part of Native American culture and many tribes continued to craft their mocs until the turn of the 19th century when the Europeans increasingly began to impose their own clothing fashions.
The Craftsmanship and Significance of Mocs
Native American mocs are traditionally hand crafted and can be very elaborate. All of the mocs are made without any pattern or template and are a labor of love, with many hours put into each pair. The construction of the shoe is such that it fits the individual’s foot, and the form of the moc follows their unique shape. Often the shoe was adorned with small decorations such as beads, embroidery, feathers, porcupine quill work, or sometimes with small tuft of fur or other decorations.
Mocs were, and are, a very significant part of Native American communities and often tribes would craft their mocs to pass down to future generations. Mocs were a vital utilitarian item and also a symbol of identity. Different tribes would incorporate symbols and designs that were distinctive to them, and as well as being practical, they were often a sign of the wearer’s status or occupation.
Native American Fashion
Mocs are now making a comeback in the fashion world and many savvy shoppers are looking to support Native American businesses. Mocs are now being made with an eye for contemporary fashion, as well as with an appreciation for their heritage and unique craftsmanship.
Mocs can be dressed up for more formal occasions, or teamed with jeans for a more casual look. They have an instant ‘madeby’ feel to them which can offer a point of difference in any wardrobe.
Conclusion
Native American made mocs have an important historical and cultural significance for many Native Americans throughout history. The craftsmanship involved in making these unique and beautiful handmade shoes is something to be admired and celebrated. They are now more popular than ever thanks to modern fashion trends, and any savvy shopper seeking a unique style with a wink to history should be sure to check out Native American fashion and handmade mocs.
References
Moccasins: Their Indian Origin, X-Raying Indian History. (2020). Retrieved 2 December 2020, from www.textile-emeralds.com/1/Moccasins_Indian_history.html
Native American Shoes: History, Origins & Tradition. (2020). Retrieved 2 December 2020, from americasfootprints.com/native-american-shoes/