Starting with identifying the range of garments present during the Classical Period of Māori traditional clothing (1769–1800), their function and the ways they were made, this book then explores how clothing of Māori has changed in style, function and construction. Hirini Moko Mead makes a detailed analysis of the materials used, construction techniques, patterns, garments produced and the ways they have changed over time. The text is accompanied by photographs and illustrations of feather cloaks, dogskin cloaks, piupiu, rain capes and many other garments as well as details of the decoration and methods of making.