Basotho Blanket & Mokorotlo

Traditional Sotho Fashion and Styles

All the ethnic groups, although closely related in some ways, always have a distinct cultural aspect to offer. It is a combination of our different traditions and cultures that enriches our African heritage. In addition, what makes it even more interesting is how different groups, not only within our national borders but also beyond, trade traditional fashion tastes. Today, we visit central parts of South Africa to explore common traditional Basotho fashion styles with our focus rooted in the popular Basotho blanket and mokorotlo straw hat. Basotho are a Bantu ethnic group found in Lesotho and South Africa.

Mokorotlo (Straw Hat)

A mokorotlo is a hut-thatch-shaped straw hat commonly worn by Basotho people as part of their traditional clothing. These headpieces are common at significant gatherings and ceremonies. Mokorotlo hats are meticulously crafted by renowned and creative Basotho weavers from an indigenous grass species known as mosea or leholi by the Basotho.

History of the Hat

Little is known about the origins of the mokorotlo straw hats. It is believed the Basotho adopted the mokorotlo through their constant exposure to the Cape Muslims who wore hats which slightly resembled the Sotho mokorotlo. However, there is a contrary view that attributes the origins of the straw hat to the Basotho people. Proponents of this view argue that the Basotho drew inspiration for the design from the highly cherished conical-shaped Mount Qiloane found in Lesotho.

Significance of the Hat

The mokorotlo is commonly displayed by the Sotho in their homes as a way of demonstrating commitment to their cultural heritage. The hat is also central to the Basotho cultural attire as a reflection of their identity and pride.

Another significant element of the Basotho clothing tradition, that usually accompanies mokorotlo, is the blanket known as the Basotho blanket. There is a variety of these blankets with different cultural statements, but there is one called Seanamarena which carries the highest status. The Seanamarena is exclusively for the king and his chiefs.

History of the Blanket

According to a 2015 article penned by Sean Shuter in Vogue chronicling the rich history of the Basotho blanket, the origins of the blanket culture date back to 1860. It is believed that the Basotho king, Moshoeshoe I, was gifted a wool blanket by a French missionary, resulting in the abandonment of his traditional leopard-skin rug. His subordinates followed suit, thereby making the blanket emblematic of the Basotho tradition.

Significance of the Basotho Blanket

The Basotho blanket is worn for protection against the cold climate of mountainous regions of Lesotho and the Free State province in South Africa (characterised by snowfall and temperatures that drop to below freezing point). The blanket is also worn for identity purposes. Just like the mokorotlo hat, the blanket symbolises the pride, identity and heritage of the Basotho people. As aforementioned, there is a variety of blankets, some of which indicate an individual’s social status.

Basotho Blanket on the International Arena

To add a touch of authenticity to the fictional African nation of Wakanda in Black Panther, the film’s costume department employed the Basotho blanket. According to reports, despite allegations of cultural appropriation against the film's producers, there was a noticeable surge in sales of the Basotho blankets.