A matchcoat or match coat was a native american outer garment consisting of a length of coarse woolen cloth (stroud), usually about 2 metres (7 ft) long, worn wrapped around the upper part of the body like a toga. The matchcoat might be worn by people either sex. It was a common article of trade by the English and French with the native peoples. The matchcoat was usually fastened with a belt; no buttons or pins were used. A matchcoat might also serve as a blanket for sleeping. The name "matchcoat" is a transliteration into English of an Algonquian word referring to clothing in general.