Sequin (China Poblana) Skirt

The name of the “china poblana” skirt may have its origins in the 17th century story of the Indian princess Mirra, the term “china” being used for anyone from Asia, or the use of these skirts to dress the servants of aristocratic women who were called “Chinita” or “china” in the early-mid 1800s. Regardless of the origin, this dress has become a staple of the costume worn to dance the Jarabe Tapatio, the national dance of Mexico, also known as The Mexican Hat Dance.

A skirt with the full ground covered in sequins is considered a professional china, and the less-densely sequined skirts are student china. They are usually worn with a hoop underneath so the full beauty of the designs can be appreciated. The base of this skirt is a peach-colored cotton with a black floral and geometric design, but the design can only be seen from the inside. Green rayon panels are attached to the top and bottom, and the top panel has a drawstring. The entire cotton ground is covered with multicolored sequins depicting the Mexican coat of arms – an eagle, snake, and cactus. The eagle is flanked on both sides by eagle warriors, the most powerful Aztec warriors. On the opposite side, the face of Tlaltecuhtli is shown, who is the goddess of the Earth and fertility.