Iviniv Waistcoat

Because of the Iviniv lifestyle, clothes must be very practical. Traditional garments have evolved over time to best serve their nomadic way of life.   There are different styles of waistcoat for men and women, but they share fundamental principles. The material is lightweight and durable, and is expandable to create a large pocket on the back. This can be used to carry bulky goods or young children. The waistcoat distributes the weight around the waist as well as the shoulders and back. Small flaps can be opened to allow children's legs to dangle free, and the size of the pocket can be adjusted for a secure fit.   The Iviniv have working animals to carry the majority of their goods, so the waistcoats are more commonly used for children who cannot yet walk as far as the adults; however, there is always one person in a group carrying important essentials for an emergency in case of something happening to the animals. This was a lesson hard learned the hard way for some clans when their animals were stolen by bandits and they were left with nothing, and in desperate need of medicine.   While travelling, children are passed around the group, so that no one person is carrying the weight the entire duration. The raising of children in Iviniv culture is very much a cooperative task, shared between those in the clan who travel together. Because of the way the Iviniv calendar is worked out, their group is made up not of those who are related to them, but those who share similar birthdays. Children are encouraged to learn to walk short distances as soon as possible, but their carers are patient and will alternate walking and carrying even if it considerably slows down the group.