History Of Saudi Women Dress

Unlike the coastal areas of the Peninsula, which have known outside influences since antiquity, the inhospitable "interior" has given rise to individual forms of expression. Fjom the Najd, for example, has come the unique 'abaya dress - the voluminous, poncho-style cross between a dress and a cloak. One of the more spectacular garments, the 'abaya is made of fine black wool or cotton appliqued with large rectangular patches of vivid pink, green and orange silk and embroidered with red, green, yellow, pink and orange thread in patterns that are usually geometric but occasionally include a floral motif.

Saudi women and embroidery

Embroidery, of course, adds to the color of Bedouin dress, even when machine done, but in fact embroidery on Bedouin dress is an art in itself. Invariably necklines, bodices and cuffs are accented with embroidery, sometimes with metallic thread and sequins. The stitching, generally, is fine and sometimes quite exquisite - occasionally equaling the finest Victorian samplers.