Djerdan

There is a unique garment sometimes worn in Vrlika, a small town in Dalmatia. This is indicated by its name, Djerdan, which simply means necklace. It consists of a length of linen which covers the front of the body, and which is covered with silver coins. A kerchief is often attached to this at the strap which goes around the neck. Men wear a similar kerchief around their waists. Originally they were hand embroidered, but today mass produced printed kerchiefs are worn. A marriageable girl would wear the Djerdan on special occasions to show off her family's wealth.

Ethnographic Museum, Split, Croatia