Is Western style clothing acceptable in Saudi Arabia?

For a long time already in Saudi Arabia’s cultural history, fashion choices have been extremely conservative for both men and women. Yet, it seems like society is slowly letting go of these rules. Fortunately, since 2019, there has been a clear tendency toward a more avant-garde and modern approach to the use of clothing styles, integrating elements of Western fashion that are still tasteful and contemporary.

Today western style of clothing is gradually spreading and is fully accepted in Saudi Arabia provided it does not violate the requirements of decency and accords with sophistication.

The question we should ask is: how can modern Western clothing style blend in with the changing fashion landscape in Saudi Arabia?

 

Dressing norms to follow in Saudi Arabia

Stick to the Rule Book: Saudis have stipulated traditional clothing guidelines that every tourist, including you, should adhere to. Besides dressing appropriately, it is very important to always behave in a respectful manner within public places. The men and women are to respect the local cultural dressing norms and also follow.

Clothing Guidelines for Women: Women need to choose their clothes carefully so that they are knee-length and shoulder-length, avoiding any clothing that shows cleavage. Besides women, men too should prefer loose-fitting and not sheer or revealing clothes. Fortunately, women can still adopt the Western style of skirts, gowns, and dresses, provided of course they adhere to the guidelines. It is always good to have an abaya on top of your clothing when entering traditional public spaces.

What Men Should Wear: Men should not wear flashy clothing and opt for T-shirts that don't have any suggestive slogans or graphics. If you are not in a Western enclave, don't wear skinny jeans, sleeveless shirts, or shorts. As a common dress code, a modest outfit covering from head to toe with only little jewelry is preferable. Nowadays, in professional environments, a formal suit and tie are a very trendy option.

 

What is the reason Arabs wear their traditional clothes?

Arab clothing is basically worn for protection from the arid climatic conditions of the area. With diurnal temperatures going to extremes on the temperature scale, traditional attire is still the life savior in these regions. Apart from that, the entire Islamic global community places great emphasis on modest dressing for both men and women. So the traditional clothes are serving a dual function in Saudi Arabian society. 

 

Saudi Style Statement and Contemporary Fashion

Do not be mistaken and think that the Saudis do not care about fashion just because of their conservatism in clothing. The Saudi people are those who are dedicated to masterpieces of the finest fabrics that reflect the elegance of their ancestors and cultural heritage. Wearing the latest fashionable clothing and their fondness for highly reputable global brands enable them to bask in the glory of the best of the best worldwide.

• Attires and Trends: Apart from the traditional garments like the abaya, hijab, thobe, keffiyeh, ghutrah, bisht, niqab, dishdasha, and shayla, many individuals in Saudi Arabia are increasingly embracing Western clothing styles, including skirts, pants, and professional outfits. Also, swimwear is permitted exclusively at specific beaches and pools.
• Fabric Material: When it comes to choice of fabric, there is a range of fabrics like cotton, cellulose, sustainable, silk, and polyester, and a wide selection of dyeable fabric materials that go well with the Saudi dressing style. In the sweltering heat of the Gulf region, it is highly advisable to go for natural fabrics that are both breathable and lightweight.

Western Style: Making Subtle and Gradual Inroads

 

The opulent desert-land is already being affected by the western lifestyle. As a tourist, you can play around with a variety of western dresses and attire in the country, but stick to the basic clothing guidelines.

So let us take a look at the styles that can be inclusive and sensitive to the cultural aspects of Saudi Arabia.

Recommended Western Style Clothing for Women: 

• Long-Sleeved Kimonos: You can also wear a kimono with a pair of cotton jeans, but be sure to cover your hands, shoulders, and hips. There are many options for chic and stylish kimonos that are light and breathable and can be worn in place of an abaya.
• Long skirts with baggy tops: In cases where you have decided to wear long cotton or linen skirts, chose cotton or linen fabric. Due to the scorching heat, arid climate, and great temperature differences between day and night—especially in spring, summer, and autumn—it is strongly advised to wear loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers. It is very important to allow air through your clothes because this is the only way you can keep yourself cool throughout the day.
• Full-Sleeved Dresses: Another option that women can wear is full-sleeved dresses in lightweight and comfortable fabrics if they spend their time in designated places in metropolitan areas.
• Co-ords and Resort Outfits: As for Western dressing, it is very common to see matching sets and resort outfits in exclusive western compounds and elite places.
• Business Line Clothing: Avoid wearing low necklines and tight-fitting outfits. The key is to exude elegance through your choice of outfit. You can sport a turtleneck, a round neck inside a suit that covers your hind. 

Note: In some towns, it might be wise to have an abaya on hand to cover your outfit if needed. So, don’t forget to bring one along!

Choice of Men’s Western Clothing in Saudi Arabia: 

In the country, it's common for men to don white throbes, but tourists aren't required to follow this tradition. However, a thobe is the most comfy choice for the torrid climate of the country.

• Long Trousers: Men are expected to cover their bodies and refrain from revelatory clothing. Wearing shorts can be frowned upon in most places in the country. So, baggy or lose trousers can let you easily navigate the sandy terrain of Saudi Arabia. 
• T-Shirts: As long as T-shirts are free of provocative and mean slogans or images, they are safe and comfortable things to wear.
• Jumpers: Cotton and linen jumpers are ultra stylish options to sport in the country. It is highly recommended to select fabrics that are more natural and breathable to ensure optimal comfort and promote skin health.
• Shirts: Sustainable fabric shirts are gaining immense popularity among tourists in Saudi Arabia. A wide range of stores offer western-style shirts, showcasing the growing acceptance of western clothing in Saudi wardrobes.

Conclusion

More people in Saudi Arabia, especially those living in urban areas and moving more freely, are looking towards Western fashion. As the country is fast changing, it is incorporating Western elements into their traditional attire. A lot of colors and patterns of Western fashion have been increasingly infused into Saudi design, changing the scene completely in places where the restrictions are more relaxed. 

Are you looking for western attire suitable for your time in Saudi Arabia? Don't you worry about a thing because you can get it from multi-brand online retailers and local garment manufacturers that not only provide high-quality fabrics imported from the best suppliers worldwide to have sustainable fashion as their unique selling proposal. Fabriclore is a fashion hub which is getting extremely popular among designers from both in and outside India who appreciate the opportunity to procure quality fabrics in bulk from this establishment. At Fabriclore, we offer personalized services to ensure that all your design needs are satisfied. Do you have any queries regarding your fashion choices for your next trip to Saudi Arabia? Feel free to send us a message, and we’ll address all your questions and needs promptly!

Wishing you a joyful and secure fashion adventure in the stunningly wonderful Saudi Arabia!