Traditional Arab Costume Ideas
The ancient Middle East is considered as one of the most advanced cultures in history as it is rich with
breathtaking and magnificent architecture. The "1001 Arabian Nights" is a collection of tales that narrate the
exciting world of sultans, genies, shieks, harem girls and sexy belly dancers. Filled with fantastic tall tales and
a mysterious past, Arab costume ideas mirror how western culture has always been amazed with the ancient Arab
world.
Below is a list of different important figures from the Arabian world with a detailed explanation about each of the
Arab costume they wear.
Sultans are basically rulers and shieks, who are members of the Arab society that are highly honored. There are
numerous ways that one must follow in wearing an Arab costume for males. Some of the most common components
included in wearing a male Arab costume are: a headpiece, a top, a sash and a pair of pantaloons. Pantaloons are
loose-fit pants which are tight on the ankles. The headpiece can be any traditional Arab headpiece such as the
scarf with a band. The top can either be a loose top or a vest. An additional sword or a dagger completes the whole
traditional Arab costume. A sultan Arab costume can also incorporate more royal colors like gold and purple.
A harem princess Arab costume must always be alluring and exotic. Harem princesses usually wear sheer pantaloons or
loose-fit pants that are completely snug on the waist and are tight in the ankles. They also wear a midriff top
that usually comes with a sheer sleeve. Though this information is quite inaccurate, harem princesses can also wear
clear heels so that attention is not diverted from their outfit and for them to remain sexy. Wearing a headpiece or
a crown is also optional.
A belly dancer Arab costume is quite similar to the costume worn by harem princesses except for the costume
accessories. Belly dancers are known to have exceedingly decorative and colorful costumes which include stitched
bells and coins. Their costumes are commonly comprised of a long and flowing light harem pants or skirts designed
with hip scarves or belts that are decorated with a lot of coins. Tops normally worn by belly dancers can ether be
a midriff top or simply a bra that is decorated with fringes or beads. They can also wear a sheer veil on their
faces enabling them to conceal their eyes.
A genie is an integral character present in almost all Arabian tales and films. A genie's costume often share
different elements present in the previous characters and costumes but its distinction is the bottle where the
genie basically comes from. A genie wearing an Arab costume will often be seen wearing a vest, a turban, pantaloons
and a pair of knitted shoes.
Lastly, an Arab costume will ultimately look great when worn in pairs or groups. Majority of Arabian costume ideas
will definitely appeal more to couples or among groups of people. If you are a member of a certain group, you can
dress yourself as a sultan and pair yourself with someone who will be wearing an Arab costume portraying a harem
princess. Or you can also dress yourself as a shiek warrior and build an army of shiek warriors.
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