garbing

Garbing is the act of clothing oneself or another by selecting and putting on garments. The term stems from garb, meaning clothing or attire, and refers to the process of dressing as well as to the clothing being worn. While common in older or formal prose, garbing is still used to describe the act of assembling a particular outfit or presenting oneself in a defined style. A person garbed in ceremonial attire might wear robes or other distinctive garments associated with a role or occasion.

In usage, garbing emphasizes the clothing itself and the overall presentation rather than just the act of putting clothes on. In fashion and styling contexts, garbing can describe assembling an outfit to achieve a specific look. In historical or literary writing, it can signal status, role, or character through costume. In cosplay, performance, or ritual settings, garbing refers to outfitting a participant in designated garb that aligns with a character or tradition.

Garbed is the past participle form, as in “garbed in formal robes.” Garbing serves as the present participle, as in “garbing oneself in a ceremonial suit.” Related terms include garb, attire, clothing, dress, and costume. The concept intersects with dress codes, uniforms, and the cultural significance attached to different kinds of clothing.