7 Facts About the Herero Dress

1. The Ohorokorva is a traditional Herero dress originating from the Victorian Era and brought into Southern Africa in the 20th century by the German Missionaries.

2. This style of dressing was initially forced on the Herero tribe by the Germans after the genocide that wiped off over 80% of the Herero population.

3. This Victorian style dress worn over a number of petticoats, has however been re-adopted as a traditional Herero symbol of pride with a modification; the addition of an unusual shaped hat.

4. The Herero Hat actually takes after the horns of a cow. This tribe, found in Namibia and Botswana were originally cattle breeders, who measured their wealth by the amount of cows they possess.

5. The Herero hat is made from rolled cloth.

6. The Herero dress usually covers most of the woman’s body; originally an indication of a married woman who’s body is to be reserved for her husband.

7. The Herero dresses are usually worn to weddings and funerals as the typical Herero function is a little short of being a fashion show.