occasin

occasin is a variant spelling of moccasin, the soft-soled shoe traditionally made by Indigenous peoples of North America. The term describes footwear crafted from soft hides such as deerskin or buckskin, featuring a flexible sole and a low, comfortable profile designed for quiet movement and everyday wear. Traditional moccasins are typically constructed from a single piece of leather for the upper, with a separate sole attached by stitching or tacking; they are often unlined or lightly lined and may be decorated with beadwork or quillwork.

Regional styles vary by nation and region. Plains, Woodland, and Coastal groups developed distinct toe shapes, stitching methods, and decorative patterns. Moccasins are valued for their flexibility, sensitivity to terrain, and lightweight construction, making them suitable for activities from hiking to ceremonial dancing. In many communities, moccasin making is a skilled craft passed down through generations.

In modern English, occasin has been used more broadly to describe soft moccasin-style footwear in casual and fashion contexts. Contemporary variants include house slippers, driving moccasins, and loafers that preserve the moccasin's characteristic toe seam and flexible construction. Beaded, embroidered, or fringe-adorned designs remain common in reinterpretations of the style.

Color usage and ambiguity: occasin also names a light brown shade used in fashion and design, resembling tan leather. The term water moccasin, though related etymologically, refers to a venomous snake (Agkistrodon piscivorus) and is not a footwear term.