The vrakas, the men’s costume of Cyprus

Parts of the costume

Tap a piece to see it on the costume.

1. 1 HeadscarfA scarf wound round the head; the bridegroom’s was brightly coloured with lace at the edges.
2. 2 ShirtDark striped cotton for every day; for feasts and weddings, silk, the "pourountzikkin".
3. 3 KansourmasA sleeveless waistcoat for feasts and winter, of fine striped cloth, blue velvet or red felt, embroidered on the edges, back and pocket. The summer one, the "perikos", was of white woven cloth.
4. 4 ZimpouniA short striped jacket with slit sleeves, for every day.
5. 5 Zostra (sash)A woollen woven sash, red for young men and black for older ones; for feasts and weddings, silk, the "tarapoulouzi".
6. 6 VrakaOf three widths of cotton, or far more to make it full; white drawers underneath help it flare.
7. 7 PodinesGoatskin boots with thick nailed soles, against snakes. In the towns shoes, "skarpes", were worn too.