The Poncho is basically a piece of fabric with a hole in the middle through which the head can go. In fact a garment like a poncho was probably the first garment worn by prehistoric man, made out of a roughly rectangular animal skin with a hole in the middle, rather like this one shown on the right.

The word "poncho" comes from Araucanian word (a language of Chile in South America) "pontho" meaning woolen cloth. Here is a Poncho from Peru.

Ponchos originated in South America, often being woven in bright colours and patterns. They usually hang down to about hip length. The warm garment could become a blanket at night. Many of the North American Indian tribes use ponchos as an essential part of their clothing, particularly the Apache and Navajo tribes.

In the 20th century, particularly in the 1960's, Ponchos were a great fashion garment, as can be seen from the picture here on the right.

American designer Bonnie Cashin was well known for her woolen ponchos and other warm woolen garments. She mentioned that she started making them after travelling in her convertible car and feeling cold. She took a car blanket and cut a hole for her head and carried on driving. Afterwards she decided to add this garment to her regular clothing line, with great success.

We are showing a Bonnie Cashin poncho from 1962 on the left. If you want to read more about her, click on Cashin here.

Nowadays ponchos come in softest suede, cashmere or even chiffon. Here on the right are two from Gucci and Bill Blass.

click below:

The Poncho, by J.E. Molina

Fabulous Crocheted Ponchos by Terry Taylor

2003