The Köroğlu Epic is one of our epics that has reached epic status. Its formation is as old as Turkish history. It carries the traces of its time and geography in concentric circles and branches to the present day. It contains material and spiritual cultural elements. The epic hero is important because of the values he represents. Physical descriptions play a significant role in the construction of these values. Among these, clothing plays an essential role. It functions as an indicator of the hero’s identity, ideology, status, and belonging. This study covers the Anatolian and Azerbaijani branches of the Köroğlu epic and stories belonging to the Oghuz Turks. It examines the symbolic and cultural function of Köroğlu’s clothing. Equestrian culture and a mobile lifestyle are among the most influential factors in clothing design. Although Köroğlu often wears everyday clothes, his outward appearance is far from ordinary. As a representative of the Alp (heroic) tradition, he prefers war attire and suits that will show his combative side, strength, and courage. Sometimes, he chooses clothing that emphasizes his existence and prestige as the ruler of Çamlıbel, the leader of the madmen, and the hero who subdued the lords. They change their clothes when necessary to conceal themselves, surprise their enemies, or plan their actions. This allows us to see how clothing conceals identity by breaking down the element of belonging. By carrying societal values, they are effective in transmitting cultural memory.

Keywords
Köroğlu, epic, costume, clothing