Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16th, commemorates the start of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810. This festive holiday is celebrated with parades, festivals, traditional food, music, and dance. When deciding what to wear to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, it’s important to consider the significance of the holiday, the typical weather in September, and the types of celebrations you’ll be attending.
Significance of Mexican Independence Day
Mexican Independence Day marks the day Miguel Hidalgo issued the Cry of Dolores in 1810, which called for the end of Spanish rule in Mexico. This kicked off an 11-year war that ultimately resulted in Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1821. The holiday celebrates Mexico’s sovereignty and cultural pride. Traditional clothing is often worn to honor Mexican history and customs.
Weather in September
Since Mexican Independence Day falls in September, it’s important to check the weather to ensure your outfit is seasonally appropriate. In most parts of Mexico, September falls in the rainy season with temperatures around 70°F – 80°F. However, weather can vary by region. The holiday weekend often brings outdoor festivities like parades, concerts, and street fairs, so you’ll want clothing that provides some protection from the rain and sun while still allowing you to comfortably join in the celebrations.
Types of Mexican Independence Day Celebrations
There are many ways to commemorate Mexican Independence Day. Here are some of the most popular celebrations and how to dress appropriately for them:
Parades and Festivals
Mexico City hosts a massive military parade on the evening of September 15th to kick off Independence Day festivities. Spectators sport Mexican flags, banners, and other patriotic gear. Similar parades and festivals happen in cities and towns across Mexico. Opt for casual, comfortable clothing in layers along with decorative embellishments like Mexican flags or ribbons. Tennis shoes or sandals are ideal for walking around festival grounds all day.
Family Gatherings
It’s customary for Mexican families to gather for big feasts on Independence Day. Traditional dishes like mole, pozole, and chiles en nogada are served. For these family celebrations, casual nice attire is recommended. Think pants and nice blouses or collared shirts for women, and slacks and button-down shirts for men. Dressing up a bit shows respect for your hosts while still allowing you to remain comfortable with family.
Traditional Dances & Performances
Folkloric dance groups decked out in beautiful detailed costumes perform at Independence Day events. Attendees of these cultural performances often wear traditional Mexican clothing to honor the performers. Women wear long ruffled skirts in vibrant colors along with ornate blouses. Men don flowing shirts, sashes, and sombreros. This is a great occasion to don your most beautiful Mexican-inspired outfit.
Nightlife Parties & Concerts
Many bars, clubs, and concert venues host special events for Mexican Independence Day. The atmosphere is festive and a bit rowdy in many cases. Opt for stylish going-out clothes like dresses, heels, and jeans. Show your Mexican pride with accessories in green, white, and red. Face paint in the colors of the Mexican flag is also popular.
Men’s Mexican Independence Day Outfits
Men have several stylish options for celebrating Mexican Independence Day:
Traditional Mexican Shirt & Pants
An embroidered Mexican wedding shirt paired with loose cotton pants is the ultimate traditional look. Choose a short-sleeved, collared shirt in a bright color with intricate embroidery. White or black pants complete the outfit. Add leather huaraches, a sombrero, and a colorful sarape for a fully traditional ensemble.
Modern Mexican-Inspired Attire
For a more modern take, opt for pants or dark washed denim with a Mexican graphic tee or a solid-colored button-down. Incorporate hats like baseball caps or fedoras with Mexican flair. Finish it off with leather bracelets and comfortable shoes. This outfit shows pride for your heritage in an updated way.
Dressy Looks
For more formal celebrations, wear black or brown slacks with a neutral button-down shirt. A few accents like a patterned vest, red necktie, or poncho add Mexican spirit. Be sure to wear dress shoes that can handle all the dancing.
Casual Wear
Keep it simple and comfortable with jeans, shorts, or casual pants and a Mexican-themed t-shirt. Add simple leather sandals or tennis shoes to complete the laidback look. This works great for outdoor festivals and daytime celebrations.
Women’s Mexican Independence Day Outfits
Women also have plenty of fabulous options for Mexican Independence Day style:
Traditional Mexican Dress
A ruffled A-line skirt paired with a peasant blouse makes for an iconic Mexican dress. Choose vibrant, ornate fabrics and finishes. Accent with jewelry, flowers in your hair, and flat sandals. Bring a shawl or sarape for the evening. This graceful style is perfect for cultural performances.
Modern Mexican-Inspired Attire
For a contemporary twist, wear jeans, leggings, or knee-length shorts with a trendy Mexican-themed t-shirt or blouse. Incorporate modern takes on traditional accessories like colorful beaded bracelets. Finish with cute boots or sneakers. This stylish look works great for parades and festivals.
Dressy Looks
A fancy cocktail dress splashed with a Mexican print or featuring ruffles and bright colors perfectly blends formality with cultural celebration. Add strappy heels and gold jewelry for an elegant fiesta look. A chic blazer can also dress up basic dresses or trousers.
Casual Wear
Keep cool in the September heat with casual maxi dresses, skirts, and shorts paired with relaxed fit blouses. Show off your Mexican flair with fun accessories and sandals. This comfortable style is ideal for warm daytime festivities.
Mexican Inspired Accessories
Accessorize your Mexican Independence Day outfit with:
- Sombreros
- Sarapes
- Leather huaraches
- Colorful ponchos and shawls
- Beaded necklaces
- Braided bracelets
- Flowers for your hair
- Vibrant hair ribbons
- Mariachi barrettes
- Flag inspired buttons and brooches
These festive touches add spirit to any outfit.
Mexican Independence Day Colors
Incorporate Mexico’s national colors green, white, and red wherever possible. Other popular options include:
- Black
- Brown
- Gold
- Yellow
- Pink
- Orange
- Turquoise
- Purple
These bright, vibrant shades reflect the lively spirit of the holiday.
Conclusion
Mexican Independence Day is the perfect occasion to proudly display your heritage through traditional or contemporary inspired fashion. Consider the holiday’s significance, weather, and types of celebrations when planning your attire. Incorporate Mexican colors, patterns, and accessories. Whether you don a folkloric ensemble or casual daywear, let your clothing reflect your patriotic spirit. Feliz Día de la Independencia!
