Worn by Angami Naga men and women during very important occasions-festivals, dances, and ceremonial gatherings- this skirt is made from a thick white cotton skirt with the waist cloth mainly used by them. The skirt is manufactured by sewing four pieces of cotton cloth together in a length stitch thus obtaining the required width and structure. The use of multiple panels bestows symbolic meanings but also stands for traditional construction techniques where smaller individual strips are hand-woven and precious with their joining. Another distinctive feature of the waistcloth is the striking contrast of the four dark blue stripes on two sides.
Two of these bear an additional red band, further beautifying and ancient significance to the garment. The colors speak for the Angami: dark blue stands for strength and unity; red, for life and courage-all qualities that are very much treasured in the culture. The cotton fringe on one end of the waistcloth attests to an appreciation for texture and finish, while the sewn end secures the cloth around the waist. Thus the garment reveals to the one functional view upheld by a cultural meaning and tradition that acts as the basis for its necessity in Angami dress