Only at church or on some important or ceremonial occasion is the _huipil_ worn as it was meant to be.

Usually at church the wearer draws the garment over her upper body, but does not put her arms into the sleeves, nor her head through the neck-opening, simply fitting her face into this in such a way that it appears to be framed in a broad, oval, well-starched border of pleated lace.

Usually, however, the garment is not even worn in this manner, but is turned upside down and carelessly hung upon the head so that the broad lower fringe of lace falls back upon the hair, while the upper part of the garment, with the sleeves, the collar, and cuff-ruffs, hangs down upon the back.

The whole effect is that of a fine crest rising from the head, coursing down the back, and moving with the breeze as the woman walks.

These Zapotec women are fond of decoration, but particularly prize gold coins.