Men Traditional Dress in Kuwait

Traditional dress has always been important within Kuwait and still continues to be so.

Kuwaitis take pride in their country and its traditions and this is expressed through the clothes they choose to wear.

This article talks about the traditional clothes of Kuwait.

The Ghutra
The Ghutra is a square scarf made of cotton, and is worn folded into a triangular shape with the fold in the front over the Gahfiah. Whilst the Ghutra is worn in a variety of colours throughout the Middle East, in Kuwait it is generally white. Not only is the Ghutra worn formally but also it can be worn casually, depending on the wearer's desire.

The Igal
Igal is a doubled black cord that is used to secure the Ghutra in place. It is usually made from 10 tightly woven black goat-hair and sheep's wool.

The Gahfiah
The Gahfiah is a small white cap which is worn underneath the Ghutra. It helps to keep the Ghutra from slipping, is always white and comes in a variety of styles. In some countries the Gahfiah is worn by itself without the Ghutra, and when it is, it can come in a variety of colours. In Kuwait however, it is more usual for it to be worn underneath the Ghutra.

Dishdasha
The Dishdasha is a loose garment which covers the whole body down to the ankle.

The Dishdasha is an important symbol of equality and is so suited to the climates of the Middle East that its design has changed little in hundreds of years.

In hotter months, men tend to wear white robes, whereas during winter many people don Dishdasha made from wool, which are often darker in colour.

They are usually worn with loose white trousers underneath called 20 Sirwal mekassar.

The Dishdasha is sometimes also accompanied by a Bisht. This loose robe is worn on top of the Dishdasha, especially in colder weather.

Bishts are either made of cotton or camel / sheep wool and are always trimmed with beautiful golden embroidery.


Men Traditional Dress in Kuwait

Text Source: Over To You Student's Book

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