Function and use

      

I n olden times Amis men and women had hair down to the waist, parted in the middle and tied in a bunch at the back of the head or it would be coiled from the right rear of the head and tied and the left rear of the head. Headwear was worn on the forehead and tied at the back of the head with hemp ties so that the hair would keep in place, while also serving a decorative purpose. 　　In traditional Amis society, only men wore headwear made from shells. These were essential items worn during dances in special ceremonies. Today, women also wear this kind of decorative item on their head or neck. 　　In addition, men's headwear was the most important part of the harvest festival attire. Not only did it indicate class, it also indicated the wearer's power and role as the defender of the home. The headwear of elders and chiefs was especially extravagant, with most made from feathers and animal teeth to show their hunting prowess. It was essential to get assistance when wearing this headwear to prevent it falling off during the dancing, as such accidents were taboo.