With over 3814 distinct cultures, it is very evident that we live in a diverse world where people of different regions and ethnicities are quite distinct from one another.
Each of these ethnicities has its own uniqueness, whether it is their language, food or their lifestyle, it all shapes their identity and culture. But it’s quite impossible for us to know each and everything about these beautiful cultures. Where language and food are the most common things we relate with different cultures, there is another important aspect we have very limited knowledge about and that is their traditional costume and dresses. But with time the dresses and costumes, in general, have globalised a lot. We won’t find much difference in the formal or casual attire of eastern and western parts of the world. It has become inclusive in nature. Thus it can be said that traditional dresses are almost becoming obsolete in every culture. So let’s make ourselves aware of the traditional dresses of different cultures before they become totally obsolete.
These are some of the most beautiful traditional dress that is now rarely found to be worn:
Traje De Flamenca
It is one of the most beautiful traditional dresses. These bright colourful dresses are worn by the Flamenco dancers of Spain during their dances and performances. These dresses have ruffles on the skirt and sleeves and reach almost to the knees. The dress is made in such a pattern that it can be worn both as a dress or as a top and skirt.
Dirndl
The Dirndl is a dress worn by European women. It was initially worn as a uniform by the Austrian servants in the 19th century and was later adopted by the high-class Austrian populace as a fashion costume. Usually worn with a shirt, bodice and apron, Dirndl is gathered at the waist and falls below the knee, sometimes reaching the ankle. The dress is usually made with warm materials such as velvet, wool, thick cotton and linen, thus they are mainly worn in winter.
Cheongsam
Cheongsam is a traditional Chinese body-hugging gown that goes down to the toes. It is also known as the ‘Mandarin Gown’ and is found in two types, one for male and another for female, Cheongsam is what the women wear and Changshan is for men. Cheongsam is worn by the socialites and style icons.
Kaftan
Although it has been worn worldwide now, Kaftan is originally a traditional dress for women in Western Africa. It originated in ancient Mesopotamian society and has several regional variations. Kaftan is an ankle-length pullover robe. Traditionally these robes are usually paired with headscarves of a similar colour. The loose-fitting fabric gives people a respite from the oppressive heat of Africa and is super comfortable. This is probably one of the reasons why it has been adopted in western fashion.
Sari
One of the most beautiful and elegant dresses of all, Sari originated in India. A piece of 4 to 9 yards long cloth draped over the body, Saris are mainly worn with an underskirt called a petticoat and a blouse. It is mainly worn in the parts of India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka. It is worn in different styles depending on the region and comes in a variety of materials and designs. From formals to parties, saris can be worn on any occasion.
