Silk, Deel, and Heritage: Embracing Mongolian Tradition for Lunar New Year

This week I wanted to write about a topic that is quite dear and personal to me. Mongolian Lunar New Year, or Tsagaan Sar, has always been one of my favorite times of the year. It’s more than just a celebration; it’s a moment where tradition, family, and culture come together in the most beautiful way. And one of the biggest ways that tradition shows up? The deel.

The Mongolian deel isn’t just clothing; it’s history stitched into fabric. It’s been worn for centuries, evolving with time but never losing its significance. I’ve always admired the elegance of it—the rich silks, the intricate patterns, the way every region and family has its own unique take. There’s something special about putting on a deel for Tsagaan Sar. It’s like stepping into the past while carrying tradition forward.

Growing up, I didn’t always appreciate it as much as I do now. When you’re a kid, you don’t really think about the meaning behind what you wear—you just do what your family does. But now, as I get older, I see the deel not just as traditional clothing but as a connection to my roots. It’s a reminder of where I come from, of the strength and beauty of Mongolian culture, and of the pride that comes with wearing something so deeply tied to our history.

In a world where fashion trends come and go, traditional clothing like the deel stands timeless. And for Mongolian Lunar New Year, there’s nothing more special than wearing something that carries the spirit of our ancestors, our traditions, and our identity.

So this Tsagaan Sar, I’ll be wrapping myself in tradition, celebrating with family, and, of course, eating way too many dumplings. Сар шинэдээ сайхан шинэлээрэй! (Wishing you a wonderful Lunar New Year!)