The history of ribbon skirts can be traced back to the Great Lakes region where the Anishinaabe people first started wearing them during traditional ceremonies and special occasions. At the time, ribbon skirts were made of wool or other natural fibers and decorated with porcupine quills, beadwork, and sometimes ribbons.
Over time, the design of ribbon skirts evolved, and they became more intricate and colorful. Today, ribbon skirts are made of various materials such as cotton, silk, or satin and are often adorned with ribbons of different colors, patterns, and sizes. The colors of the ribbons often hold symbolic meanings, which vary depending on the tribe and the occasion.