Last Updated on October 23, 2022 by Reiner Chase
Why don’t Egyptians have traditional clothing? One of the reasons why Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing could be because of modernization and westernization. Most countries worldwide have their unique set of traditional clothing that people in that country wear on special occasions or just to look nice when they’re going out with their friends and family. However, Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing except for the costumes that actors wear in Egyptian movies, which are different from the clothes worn by people in Egypt today. So, are there other reasons why Egyptian people have no traditional clothing? Let’s find out!
The Key Takeaways
- Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing because most people in Egypt come from diverse cultures, so there is no one clothing attire they can identify with.
- Egyptians had traditional clothing during ancient times before being colonized by the British.
- The influence of western culture and modernization plays a major role in why Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing.
- After regaining their independence from the British, Egyptians saw traditional clothing as a backward symbol.
- Young Egyptians who have been exposed to fashion trends don’t embrace traditional clothing, especially during the hot summer of Egypt.
What Is a Traditional Clothing?
Traditional clothing is a type of clothing that is typically associated with a particular culture or region. For example, traditional Japanese clothing includes kimonos and yukatas, while conventional African clothing includes dashikis and kaftans.
Traditional Egyptian clothing, on the other hand, is not as well-known. However, it still existed during ancient times. Ancient Egyptians wore clothes made from linen and were very colorful in their appearance. The garments were often patterned with dots representing stars in the sky; some are even said to have had gold threads woven into them!
Egyptian dress was different for men and women; Men wore skirts that extended down to their ankles, while women wore pleated skirts up to their knees which were fastened around their waist by a girdle of linen strips or metal rings.
Men also sometimes wore loincloths and kilts, depending on the occasion. Women’s tunics were split at the front to make way for her breasts so that she could breastfeed her children easily. Skirts consisted of multiple lengths of cloth sewn together, so they flowed out behind like rays of light or feathers.
There was also jewelry: earrings made from precious stones such as turquoise, lapis lazuli, emeralds, carnelian, and amethyst; necklaces made from beads including faience beads and glass beads imported from Syria; bracelets made with electrum wire or leather cords wound around a core (sometimes ivory), and anklets called khafaga fashioned out of silver wire wrapped in gold thread.
When Did Egyptian Clothing Change from Traditional to Contemporary?
While the answer to this question is tricky, it boils down to a few key factors. First, Egypt was colonized by the British in 1882. This means that, for over 50 years, Egyptians were subject to British rule and influence. Second, Egypt became a republic in 1953, which led to a period of intense nationalism.
Traditional clothing was considered a backwardness symbol during this time and was discouraged. Finally, Egypt has always been a very cosmopolitan country, with people from all over the world coming to live and work there. This has led to a more diverse range of styles and influences in Egyptian fashion. In addition, many Egyptian women wear Western clothes because they feel it’s easier to get a job if they are not wearing hijab or other traditional attire.
Contemporary Egyptian Fashion
The average Egyptian today is more likely to be found wearing jeans and a t-shirt than traditional clothing. So why is this? Modernization and westernization could be part of the reasons. As Egypt has become more industrialized, its citizens have adopted more western dress styles.
This is especially applicable to younger generations who are more exposed to global trends. Additionally, traditional clothing can be seen as impractical and uncomfortable in the heat of the Egyptian summer. For these reasons, many Egyptians have abandoned traditional dress in favor of modern, westernized styles.
Still, some keep up their cultural traditions. These people might wear a galabeya or abaya over their clothes or simply find ways to integrate traditional style into everyday life (for example, by decorating their homes).
They also might not wear any head covering because they want to show pride in their heritage.
Understanding the Need for Diversity in Dress Styles
Traditional clothing is often seen as a symbol of cultural identity. In a country like Egypt, where the population is incredibly diverse, there is no one standard style of dress. Instead, Egyptians have a wide variety of dress styles that reflect their cultures and traditions.
This diversity is one of the things that makes Egypt such a beautiful and vibrant country. The different colors, shapes, fabrics, and silhouettes tell the story of Egypt’s rich history and culture. It also allows everyone to wear what they feel comfortable in without feeling like they’re not themselves.
What Are the Benefits of Modern Dresses Over Traditional Dresses?
- Modern dresses are more comfortable.
- They are easier to care for.
- They require less fabric, which is good for the environment.
- They can be made in a variety of styles to suit any taste.
- They can be made using various materials, including natural fibers like cotton and linen.
- They can be made to flatter any body type.
- They can be accessorized to create a unique look.
- They can be customized to fit various occasions.
- Lastly, they are lighter than traditional clothing, making them perfect for warmer climates.
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why modern dresses have taken over the fashion world!
The Challenge of Preserving Our Cultural Heritage Through Dress Styles?
In a globalized world, preserving our cultural heritage is more critical than ever. We have to do this through dress styles. Traditional clothing can be a symbol of our culture and can help us connect with our past. But why don’t Egyptians have traditional clothing?
Today most people wear Western clothes because they are cheap and convenient. People don’t want to spend hours sewing or embroidering when they could buy clothes from the store in minutes. Many people use Western clothes as their daily wear, so they never learn how to sew or embroider any traditional garment.
The result is that fewer skilled artisans are available who know how to make beautiful handmade clothes. The government has tried to preserve some crafts, such as weaving, but without the population’s strong demand, these crafts will not last long either.
Quotes about dress styles from Prominent Figures in Egypt
“Dressing is a way of life. It expresses who you are.” said Egyptian actress Mervat Amin. “There is no one Egyptian style. We dress according to our mood, the occasion, and our taste. The world dresses like us now because we have exported our clothes and customs. If you don’t like what people wear in Egypt, go somewhere else.”
“Why do Americans always want to tell me how I should dress? Would they dare tell their friends from another country how they should dress? Who knows more about fashion than me?” asked designer Yasmine Shahin.
The Final Word
There are several reasons why Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing. The climate is too hot for most traditional clothing. Second, Egypt is a very diverse country, with people from all over the world living here. Third, traditional dress is often associated with a specific religion or culture, and Egypt is home to many faiths and cultures. Fourth, Egyptian women have always been known for their beauty and style, and they prefer dressing in a manner and style that shows off their assets, something traditional attires cannot achieve.
So, now you know why Egyptians don’t have traditional clothing. If you have more reasons why the people of Egypt don’t embrace traditional clothes, let’s know in the comment box below.
Reference: https://discoverdiscomfort.com/what-to-wear-in-egypt-packing-tips-for-women/
