Festive costume of an adult boy. Vologda province, Kadnikovsky district.

Russians

Early 20th century

In many Russian regions, children did not have clothing made of new fabrics. Boys' shirts and pants were often remade from adult clothing or handed down from older brothers, and their belts were simple. Often, a teenager had no hat, shoes, or outerwear. If necessary, these items were borrowed from their father or older family members. In the Russian North, boys often wore only white pants, called "podstanniki." A young man of marriageable age had attire made of new fabrics. In Vologda Province, this included a motley shirt and pants, and a bright belt. Leather boots served as footwear, and a cap served as headgear. An adult boy might wear a tobacco pouch and pipes—gifts from a girl—on his belt.

Costume