CULTURE Toward a Modernized Somali Fashion: A Call for Creative Collaboration to Revive Our Visual Identity

[Cali Maxamed]

General Description of Design 3 from a Collection of 5 Traditional Somali Women's Outfits

The name of this outfit is currently unknown. It may be helpful to consult Somali linguists to discover its traditional name or create a culturally appropriate one.
This outfit is worn in daily life and casual occasions. It consists of three main pieces:
• A long blouse
• Tapered trousers
• A decorative fabric belt tied around the waist

Detailed Description of Each Component
1. Long Blouse
• Length: Falls slightly below the knees
• Decoration: Embellished with vertical stripes, geometric or botanical patterns, or made in a solid color with decorative trim at the hem and sleeve edges
• Cut: Gradually flared at the bottom to allow freedom of movement and comfort during daily wear

2. Trousers (Lower Pants)
• Color: Different from the blouse but harmonizes with it
• Cut: Straight at the thighs and tapers gradually toward the ankles (Tapered Fit)
• Fit: Not too tight
• Length: Ends just above the ankles
• Decoration: Plain, solid color with no patterns

3. Decorative Belt
• Type: Long decorative fabric sash
• Wearing Style: Wrapped around the waist and tied at the front, with the ends hanging loosely
• Design: Either matches the colors and patterns of the blouse or complements them with a coordinated color
• Function: Used to define the waist and enhance the figure without being restrictive

It is inspired by the traditional clothing of women from the city of Harar.

 

[novanova]

General Description of Design 3 from a Collection of 5 Traditional Somali Women's Outfits

The name of this outfit is currently unknown. It may be helpful to consult Somali linguists to discover its traditional name or create a culturally appropriate one.
This outfit is worn in daily life and casual occasions. It consists of three main pieces:
• A long blouse
• Tapered trousers
• A decorative fabric belt tied around the waist

Detailed Description of Each Component
1. Long Blouse
• Length: Falls slightly below the knees
• Decoration: Embellished with vertical stripes, geometric or botanical patterns, or made in a solid color with decorative trim at the hem and sleeve edges
• Cut: Gradually flared at the bottom to allow freedom of movement and comfort during daily wear

2. Trousers (Lower Pants)
• Color: Different from the blouse but harmonizes with it
• Cut: Straight at the thighs and tapers gradually toward the ankles (Tapered Fit)
• Fit: Not too tight
• Length: Ends just above the ankles
• Decoration: Plain, solid color with no patterns

3. Decorative Belt
• Type: Long decorative fabric sash
• Wearing Style: Wrapped around the waist and tied at the front, with the ends hanging loosely
• Design: Either matches the colors and patterns of the blouse or complements them with a coordinated color
• Function: Used to define the waist and enhance the figure without being restrictive

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It is inspired by the traditional clothing of women from the city of Harar.

I don’t like the dress & trouser combo 🫣

 

[Cali Maxamed]

I don’t like the dress & trouser combo 🫣

But trousers can be practical — especially for young girls who need to play freely, or for working women like police officers or army recruits.

 

[Cali Maxamed]

General Description of Design 4 – From a Collection of 8 Traditional Somali Women's Outfits

Design Name: Dirac Aroos

This is a luxurious traditional outfit worn on wedding occasions. It consists of three main components, with an optional fourth:

• The sheer long outer layer (dirac) – a transparent outer garment
• A short-sleeved blouse – worn underneath for coverage and added elegance
• A full-length skirt – worn underneath for coverage and added elegance
• Optional belt – made either from the same fabric as the dirac or from gold, for decoration and waist definition

1. The Sheer Long Outer Layer (Dirac)

• Cut: Loose and comfortable
• Fabric: Lightweight, sheer, and flows elegantly
• Length: Reaches or slightly exceeds the ankles
• Sleeves: Integrated into the fabric (not separate pieces), extending to the elbows
• Neckline: Oval, square, or round only — other shapes are not allowed
• Waist Openings: Two small, subtle slits on the sides for passing the belt (fabric or gold), allowing the dirac to be worn loosely or cinched at the waist
• Decoration: Embroidery is not allowed. Light patterns are permitted to enhance the richness of the fabric without visual clutter


2. The Blouse (Inner Layer)

• Cut: Slightly fitted to define the body without being tight
• Length: Reaches mid-hip
• Neckline: Boat neck, no collar
• Sleeves: Short, ending at mid-bicep
• Decoration: Prominent embroidery on the sleeves only
• Fabric: Satin or thick silk, in a color that complements the sheer dirac
• Function: Provides essential coverage under the sheer dirac while adding an extra touch of elegance

3. The Skirt (Underlayer)

Cut: Wide and loose, allowing free movement
• Length: Reaches the ankles
• Fabric: Satin or thick silk, same color as the blouse
• Decoration: Embroidery begins just below the knees and extends to the hem — clear and visually striking
• Waistband: Equipped with a hidden internal elastic band of suitable width to hold the skirt securely in place. A portion of the Dirac fabric can optionally be tucked into the skirt from the front to adjust the overall shape and provide a refined, cohesive look
• Function: Provides essential coverage under the sheer dirac while contributing to the outfit’s elegance

4. Optional Belt

• Material: Either from the same fabric as the dirac, or made of gold
• Function: Used for decorative purposes and to cinch the waist, giving the outfit more shape and traditional elegance
• Position: Threaded through the small side openings in the dirac, tied or fastened at the waist

As you can see, the design only reveals very specific areas of the body:
• The arms, from the elbow down – so women can adorn them with henna, bangles, and traditional jewelry
• The neck and collarbone area – to highlight the necklace and subtle elegance

This exposure is not for the sake of revealing, but rather to highlight soft femininity and refined beauty.

No exaggerated cuts. No random fusion.
Just pure Somali heritage, crafted with precision, dignity, and timeless style.

 

[Cali Maxamed]

Classification of Traditional Somali Cultural Clothing by Type and Gender

First: Women’s Clothing

For daily use and regular occasions:
Number of types: 5 designs
These designs are characterized by simplicity and elegance, prioritizing comfort and practicality while preserving Somali cultural identity.

For weddings and celebratory occasions:
Number of types: 1 design
This design is luxurious and symbolic, used for weddings and special events.

For home use:
Number of types: 2 designs
These are intended for comfort at home, while still maintaining a traditional aesthetic touch.

Second: Men’s Clothing

For daily use and regular occasions:
Number of types: 4 designs
These designs are known for their simplicity and elegance, prioritizing comfort and practicality while preserving Somali cultural identity.

For weddings and celebratory occasions:
Number of types: 1 design
This design is luxurious and symbolic, used for weddings and special events.

For home use:
Number of types: 2 designs
These are intended for comfort at home, while still maintaining a traditional aesthetic touch.

Final Notes:
This classification aims to organize and document traditional Somali clothing in a way that reflects its diversity and uses, taking into account gender and the social function of each outfit. It serves as a foundational step toward developing a modern design identity rooted in heritage.