Gamsbart

File:Gamsbaerte 2194.jpg in Munich]]

File:Miesbacher gebirgstracht mann.jpg, Bavaria]]

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The Gamsbart ({{IPA|de|'gamsbɑːʁt|lang}}, literally chamois beard, plural Gamsbärte) is a tuft of hair traditionally worn as a decoration on trachten-hats in the alpine regions of Austria and Bavaria.

Originally worn as a hunting trophy and made exclusively from hair from the chamois' lower neck, Gamsbärte are today manufactured on a large scale from various animal hair, examples of which include goat, antelope,{{Cite web |title=Authentic German Genuine Gamsbart |url=https://ernstlicht.com/250-hats-hats/21-genuine-gamsbarts/15-cm-gamsbart/ |access-date=2023-10-25 |website=Ernst Licht |language=en-US}} and badger.{{Cite web |title=Gamsbart Badger Hair with Holder in 2 sizes $50 up – Trachten-Quelle |url=https://trachten-quelle.com/product/gamsbart-badger-hair-with-holder-in-2-sizes-50-dollars-up/ |access-date=2023-10-25 |language=en-US}} They are commonly sold by specialized dealers and also at souvenir shops.

A Gamsbart is made by enclosing the lower end of the tuft of hair in a setting of metal or horn that allows the upper end to spread in a brush-like fashion. Traditionally, hairs are selected for a dark color at the lower end with a very light tip. The size and diameter of the Gamsbart are important signs of the wearer's pride and manliness.

Traditionally, Gamsbärte are exclusively placed on hats worn by men; however, recent developments in dirndl fashion have seen Gamsbärte added to various places on female dresses.