The Amazing Poncho

Is there any other piece of clothing as versatile as a poncho? From the colorful, blanket-style ponchos of Central America, to the glitzy fashion ponchos of London or Paris, this simple yet elegant garment probably has more uses, both sartorial and otherwise, than any other wardrobe item in existence.

The humble poncho began as a horse-rider's blanket, or "chony," among the Mapuche people in the central valley of Southern Chile, and today it is found around the world.

Exactly how this simple garment has found worldwide favor is worth digging into a little deeper.

It is generally thought that the spread of the poncho began in the 17^th century in South America. The invading Spaniards were impressed with the simplicity and utility of the "chony," a water resistant blanket made of wool. During stormy weather, both horse and rider were protected by the poncho. The Spanish adopted it for their own use, and as they traveled the continent, and back to Europe, the poncho went with them.

By the mid-19^th century, the poncho was pressed into service by military units in several countries. In the United States, pre-Civil War, the U.S. cavalry adopted a modified poncho. The troops waterproofed muslin with "gutta percha," an early form of latex, and the poncho became an essential part of a cavalryman's kit. With the addition of a hood, a soldier had a lightweight, comfortable, rain-proof garment that kept him dry even in the worst weather. The waterproof poncho also made a perfect groundsheet when camping for the night.

Likewise in World War II Germany, the army adapted the versatile poncho yet again. The Germans created a "shelter half," which was really a simple tent comprised of two ponchos snapped together. The amazing poncho could be worn as raingear during the day, and turned into a sheltering tent at night.

Classic ponchos, from Central and South America, vary in style and color from region to region.

The traditional poncho from the Andes is made from llama, sheep, or alpaca wool, and provides warmth against the bitter cold of the high mountain regions. The Andean poncho, or "chamanto" as it is known locally, is often reversible. The plain-designed poncho has a darker lining, which is worn out during the day, and a lighter side, worn out at night.

By contrast, the well-known Mexican "zarape," usually worn by men, is a very colorful poncho, with horizontal lines of bright color overlaid on a darker background. Originating in Coahuila, in north-eastern Mexico, the zarape is often finished with fringes, and reflects a Mayan influence in its decoration.

It is not surprising that a garment as beautiful and functional as the poncho should ultimately be copied and adapted by top fashion designers. Haute couture ponchos sell for thousands of dollars, and have been seen on such celebrities as Kate Moss, Jennifer Anniston, and Jessica Simpson, to name but a few.

Nowadays, the poncho can be seen in all parts of the world. Modern materials and fabrics, including plastic and nylon, allow for the manufacture of cheap, lightweight ponchos that are waterproof and easy to carry. Outdoor enthusiasts of every kind, particularly climbers, hikers, campers, and fishermen, will frequently carry a poncho in their packs. Anyone who works near water is also likely to carry a poncho. And at major outdoor events, be it the Superbowl or a Disney parade, ponchos are everywhere as soon as a rain begins.

From sleepy Mexican villages to Main Street, USA, from fishing boats to fashion runways, the amazing poncho is always close at hand. From its humble beginnings as the 17^th century chony of the Mapuche people, the poncho has traveled a long distance. But, amazingly, it has remained essentially unchanged. Perhaps it is that quality that makes the poncho such an enduring favorite.