All over the world, culture, weather and people's religious beliefs has contributed to the type of outfits or clothes people wear in different parts of the world.
Clothing for some people is more than just an outfit, but a representation of identity, history and societal values. Even with the high cultural mixture, one can still identify someone's culture, race from just seeing the persons attire.
In this article, we will discuss the valued attires with significance across the world.
Cultural Significance in Fashion
We all know that clothing in different cultures carries so many cultural significance. From the traditional attire passed down through generations to the modern interpretation, fashion preserves people's heritage. The following are examples;
Kimono in Japan
The kimono is a traditional attire by the Japanese that is worn on special occasions that emphasises grace, elegance, longevity and good fortune. The kimono is a wrapped-front clothes with sleeves and rectangular body, which is worn left side wrapped over the right unless the wearer is deceased.
Indian Sari
The Indian sari for Indians is not just a cloth, its a symbol in India which shows respect for elders and family value. For the women, it is also considered a symbol of modesty and femininity, gives them sense of dignity and grace, it also helps them feel confident and empowered.
Chinese Cheongsam/Qipao
The chinese qipao also known as cheongsam is a chinese national dress that is worn on special occasions and symbolises grace and beauty in chinese culture. It is a fitting, colourful fabrics pattern that expresses wish for happiness, fortune, longevity and luck.
American Navajo Clothing
Another popular clothing design with deep cultural significance is the velvet worn by the Navajo tribe in America and Canada. Which is believed to be a link between the people and the great spirit. Some argue that even till now before one can receive favour from the great spirit in navajo, the person must appear in their traditional attires to be recognized.
Maasai Red Shuka
The maasai tribe is located in East Africa known for their vibrant red Shuka clothes which is adorned with intricate beadwork and bold patterns. The attire is a symbol of their nomadic culture and stronge sense of identity. Each bead on their attire holds cultural significance, representing age, social status and life milestones.
African Ankara and Dashiki
African bold and vibrant fabrics and style celebrates African heritage. The ankara is a symbol of African nationalism and rejection of western influence while the dashiki symbolises affirmation and return to African roots. The ankara is Nigerian made with wax and resin, and the interior usually a mixture of cotton and linen.
The Ishiagu
The Igbo ishiagu is also called chieftaincy cloth, has a very important cultural significance to the Igbos in Nigeria. It is a symbol of power, authority and pride in Igbo land, with a design of tiger or lions head on it. It always goes with a black plain trousers, red cap and other traditional accessories.
Yoruba's Agbada
This is a popular attire common to the yorubas or western part of Nigeria. It is symbol of wealth and high status. It is a long flowing robe with wide sleeves. The fabrics materials are very costly thus, justifying it high status.
Black Abaya in Muslim
The abaya is a common attire for the muslim women but the black abaya solemnly reflect spirituality and purity. By wearing black abaya, these women portray their dedication to their faith and their desire to live a life that is pleasing to Allah.
Adaptation and Global Influence
Culture does not exist in isolation, and over the years has experienced evolution as a result of exchange and influence from other parts of the world.
Western Influence
Since the colonization of Africa, western has transcended borders, impacting traditional attires in different part of the African countries. Clothes like jeans, t-shirt, suites etc has found its way to wardrobes in every part of the world.
Fashion Fusion
Designers often blend elements from different fashions of the world creating fusion wears that merges traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles.
Conclusion
When you explore fashion across different cultures, it reveals the vibrant and intricate tapestry that weaves together history, identity and creativity. Each garment carries a story that reflects about the beauty, uniqueness and diverse cultures around the world.