The Philosophical Meaning Behind the Indigenous Clothes of Aceh

Indonesia consists of tens of provinces and diverse ethnic groups that color from Sabang to Marauke. One of the tribal identity in the plurality of Indonesian nation is by the existence of custom clothing. Like other areas, Aceh also certainly has custom clothing that has special value and full of meaning.

For men, custom clothing colors are usually dominated by black. Black is believed to be a symbol of greatness. In Aceh if there are big events like weddings and other customs, black clothing signifies splendor and glory. This is in contrast to the reality of other societies which usually indicates a black event of mourning. For women, the color has a variety of motives such as red, green or yellow that imply beauty, elegance, loyalty and courage.

In special occasions such as the circumcision of the apostle and marriage, every Acehnese boy is required to wear black clothes both his clothes and his trousers. The mistake in choosing other colors will be claimed as citizens who do not understand and respect the customs that have been passed down from generation to generation of Acehnese people.

As for women, the most striking and must-have elements are complementary accessories such as jewelry in the form of bracelets, necklaces, and crowns which imply that Acehnese women since ancient times have been glorified and given enough wealth for their prosperity to marry. At the time of this jewelry empire of course made of gold, but now for the comfort and safety and affordable by various circles available jewelry accessories made from imitation.