What Modern Day Iraqi People Wear (Iraqi Clothing)

Iraqi clothing is a blend of traditional and modern styles, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and its place in the modern world.

From the traditional dishdasha and abaya to modern suits and designer clothing, I'll help you explore the various styles and trends that make up the unique fashion landscape of Iraq.

We’re also going to delve into the traditional costumes worn by different ethnic groups throughout Iraq, such as the Kurdish, Turkmen, and Marsh Arabs, and examine the significance of the textile industry in shaping the clothing worn by Iraqis.

So join us as we take a journey into the fascinating world of Iraqi fashion.

Iraqi clothing for men

For Iraqi men, traditional clothing includes the dishdasha, which is a long, white robe worn with a keffiyeh headscarf. The keffiyeh is a traditional head covering that can be worn in various ways and is often seen as a symbol of Arab cultural identity. It’s made from a lightweight cotton or linen fabric and can be found in a variety of colors, including white, black, and red.

Another traditional item of clothing for men is the thawb, a long, loose-fitting tunic that is worn over the dishdasha. The thawb is typically made from lightweight cotton or linen and can be found in a variety of colors and patterns. It is often worn with a ghutra, a square headscarf that is folded and wrapped around the head.

In addition to traditional clothing, modern clothing styles are also popular among Iraqi men. This includes Western-style suits and dress shirts, as well as casual wear such as jeans and t-shirts.

Iraqi clothing for women

For Iraqi women, traditional clothing includes the abaya, a long, loose-fitting cloak that is worn over other clothing. The abaya is typically black and made from a lightweight cotton or linen fabric and is commonly worn in the more religious cities of Iraqi like Karbala and Najaf.

It’s also very common for Iraqi women to wear the hijab, which is a headscarf that covers the head and neck but leaves the face uncovered.

The hijab is typically made from a lightweight cotton or silk fabric and can be found in a variety of colors and styles. And although the hijab is worn by Muslim women, not all Muslim women choose to wear the hijab.

In addition to traditional clothing, modern clothing styles are also very popular among Iraqi women. This includes Western-style dresses, skirts, and blouses, as well as casual wear such as jeans.

Traditional Iraqi costumes

In addition to traditional and modern clothing, Iraqi people also have their own specific traditional costumes.

One of the most famous is the traditional Kurdish clothing that is worn by the Kurdish people in the northern region of Iraq. The costume for men consists of a pair of baggy pants known as a shalwar, a long-sleeved shirt, and a vest.

The costume for women includes a long dress known as a soran, which is sometimes worn over a long-sleeved blouse. The costume is also sometimes worn during traditional Iraqi weddings.

We also have another traditional costume that is worn in Iraq the Turkmen's traditional clothing. The Turkmen people, who live in the western and northern regions of the country, have their own unique traditional costumes.

Men wear a long-sleeved shirt and baggy pants, and a long vest, while women wear a long dress known as a kaftan, which is often adorned with intricate embroidery. Both men and women also wear a headscarf, known as a charshal.

Then we have the traditional clothing of the Marsh Arabs is also quite unique and distinct from the other traditional clothing in Iraq.

The Marsh Arabs are a group of people who live in the marshlands of southern Iraq close to Kuwait, and their traditional clothing reflects their way of life. Men wear a long-sleeved shirt and baggy pants, and a long vest, while women wear a long dress known as a kaftan, which is often adorned with intricate embroidery but not always.

The features of Iraqi clothing & fashion

One of the most important aspects of traditional clothing in Iraq is the use of intricate embroidery and beadwork. This is particularly true for women's clothing, where abayas and jilbabs are often adorned with intricate designs, often featuring geometric patterns and floral motifs.

This type of embroidery is known as tatreez and is a traditional art form that has been passed down for generations. It’s also used in the traditional costumes of the Kurdish, Turkmen, and marsh Arabs, adding to their unique beauty and cultural significance.

In addition to traditional clothing, there’s a growing trend in Iraq for modern, high-end fashion. This includes designer clothing, luxury brands, and haute couture. This can be attributed to the growing middle class in Iraq, as well as the increasing influence of Western culture.

Many young Iraqis, particularly in the urban areas, are embracing this trend and are looking for ways to incorporate it into their traditional clothing, and this can be seen in the way they mix traditional items with modern pieces, creating a unique and contemporary look.

Learn more about the Iraqi culture through its language

The textile industry in Iraq is playing a significant role in shaping the clothing worn by Iraqis.

The country has a long history of textile production, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia.

Today, the industry continues to thrive and is an important source of employment and income for many Iraqis. Local textile manufacturers produce a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and wool, which are used in both traditional and modern clothing. The industry is also experimenting with new technologies and materials, such as synthetic fabrics, to create new and innovative designs.

The clothing worn by Iraqi people reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and diversity.

The traditional costumes of the Kurdish, Turkmen, and marsh Arabs are also unique and distinct and are a reflection of the diversity of the culture and people of Iraq. From the traditional dishdasha and abaya to modern suits and dresses, Iraqi people take pride in their appearance and dress in a way that reflects their cultural identity.

You might also like to read our guide on Egyptian clothing as well.

Are you interested in learning more about the Iraqi language and culture?

By learning the Iraqi dialect, you can take an important step in understanding the culture of Iraq. Iraqi Arabic provides insight into the daily lives of the Iraqi people and their customs, traditions, and beliefs, which will help you gain a deeper appreciation of the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Create a free account to start speaking Iraqi Arabic today.