Djellabas - Traditional Moroccan Dress, with Modern Alterations.

Fashions are not permanent. They come and go with time. But there is a garment that has stayed over the hundred years in Morocco and its neighboring areas, the Moroccan djellaba. It is a long, loosely fitted outfit with long sleeves and hood. It is the traditional clothing of both men and women in morocco.

On special events men like to wear red colored caps which is termed as FEZ in morocco. Similarly women wear kaftans decorated by ornaments. The fabric of this djellaba changes with weather. In the summer season Moroccan wear light cotton made djellaba which protects them from harsh sun and sand blowing in the deserts, while in the winter they opt for djellaba made of wool to keep them warm. It is a dress to be worn everyday in the North African region. In some parts of this region color of the djellabas indicate the marital status of a person. Dark brown djellabas represent bachelors while there are colors to identify married couples.

Human clothing communicates social standing, cultural and religious values and group identity. Dual gendered dress is not associated with unisex identity or behavior in Arab societies of North Africa. 

Though Djellaba look identical in form but they are worn differently by men and women. As per the culture they carry the dress differently and make it evident through their gait and body language. As for as tradition is concerned djellabas are ankle length in size and available in some colors like white, black or light blue. With the advancement of time many alterations have been introduced in djellabas. They are mostly produced lightweight, slim and short shapes. 

Traditional Djellabas Styles

The djellabas are different for men and women both in style and purpose. Women like to wear it because it is very comfortable and appealing. It is considered as a modest article of clothing to wear in a Muslim country. Some women use scarves around their neck and head with djellabas. If there is a religious program it is a must to wear cloth for them. Women djellabas are more colorful if we compare it to men’s. Men only wear djellabas on special occasions. 

Djellaba for men comes in simple styles and colors. Due to the comfort level they are worn during household chores in the morning. It is important to share that men in Arab and Islamic culture practice veiling to show modesty in clothing in public. Bzou is the most eminent Djellaba appreciated by high officials of the society and worn by society dignitaries because it is almost out of reach for many people due to the high cost.

Latest djellabas in the market are prepared by considering the tradition in mind but making small alterations to go with the fashion of this era. They are available in traditional ankle length size and modern calf length size. Both of these stylish djellabas can be worn like a shirtdress or cover up. Some djellabas are made up with a front zipper in the center and can be worn like a robe. Style and design of online djellaba be at variance from area to area. 

Aboallouia style djellaba with broader shoulders and shorter hood are preferred in morocco. This garment has started to answer the fashion of the time. It is not restricted to one type of sewing as it used to be in the past.

Alterations have been made in Djellaba to give different new looks. Embroidery on the Djellabas is very prominent. Lace or cording is also used to ornament the Djellaba for giving an elegant and unique look. Black and white stripes with yellow trims are very famous. Adding the bright yellow ribbon to the openings would give it a look of noticeable garment.