Vööndit

Vööndit is a term used in Estonian to describe a belt or sash. It is a long strip of material, often leather, fabric, or woven fibers, that is worn around the waist. Historically, vööndit served both functional and decorative purposes. Functionally, it could be used to secure clothing, such as tunics or dresses, and to carry tools or pouches. Decoratively, vööndit were often elaborately decorated with embroidery, metalwork, or beads, reflecting the wearer's social status or cultural identity.

The construction and ornamentation of vööndit varied significantly across different regions and time periods within Estonia. Different weaving techniques, patterns, and materials were employed, leading to a rich diversity in their appearance. In some traditions, the width and complexity of the vööndit indicated the wearer's age and marital status. While the practical need for belts has diminished in modern clothing, the concept of vööndit continues to be recognized in Estonian cultural heritage and sometimes appears in traditional clothing worn for festivals or historical reenactments. The term itself is also used metaphorically in some contexts.