While white is the most common color for the traditional Saudi thawb (men’s garment), there’s more to traditional Saudi clothing colors than just black and white. Here’s a breakdown by region:

General Trends

Men: White is dominant, but darker colors like navy, brown, and black are common in winter. Red and white shemaghs (headcloths) are also very popular.
Women: Traditionally, women’s clothing was more colorful and diverse, with regional variations. Black abayas are a modern standard for public wear, but home wear can be more colorful.

Regional Variations

Northern Region: Darker colors were favored due to the climate and Bedouin lifestyle.
Central Region: Women wore colorful dresses with embroidery and embellishments.
Eastern Region: Fine fabrics like silk and lightweight cotton were common, with black rectangular fabrics for outerwear.
Western Region: A variety of colors were used, with the zabun (outer garment) often made from satin or brocade.
Southern Region: Vibrant colors like red and blue were prevalent, with intricate geometric patterns.
Important Notes

Modern Trends:

While traditional colors still hold significance, modern Saudi fashion incorporates a wider range of colors and styles.
Symbolism: Colors can have symbolic meanings, with white often representing purity and black representing modesty or mourning.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, individuals may choose colors based on personal preference and current fashion trends.

Where to Find More Information

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saudi_national_dress
Arab News: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2591223/saudi-arabia

Keep in mind that this is a simplified overview, and there’s much more to explore about the rich history and diversity of traditional Saudi clothing colors.


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