09/05/2004
Costumes somewhat resemble those of the Thai people. Sila women traditionally wear black or indigo blouses and dresses, highly ornamented with many coins. The collar and sleeves of the blouse are always decorated with bands of various colors. The blouse is buttoned under the right arm and often reveals the midriff. They wear a headdress over their hair, but this varies according to age. Young girls wrap their hair around their head and secure it with a simple white headdress. Married women wear an indigo head covering, with various decorations. They usually carry handbags woven of hemp fiber decorated with red fringe. Women often paint their teeth black, though young people are doing this less frequently. Jewelry consists of silver necklaces in the form of a large ring, and matching silver bracelets. Earrings are also common.
Sila men usually wear clothing similar to the Viet. But many wear an indigo tunic, reaching to mid thigh, often worn over blue or indigo trousers. They often wear a turban. Some wear western clothing. Traditionally, men paint their teeth red.