The author presents embryological development of the musculoskeletal system and the skin. Although they are basically both mesodermal in origin, the article emphasises the ectoder­mal origin of head bones, certain small smooth muscles and skin epidermis, with accent on the segmental origin of musculoskeletal regions. Development of the dermis and epidermal adnexes is clearly explained. For better understanding, some clinical correlates to develop­mental problems are shown as well.