Couples who match their outfits have taken the world by storm! Nowhere is this trend more evident than in Saudi Arabia and other parts of the Middle East. Everywhere you look, young couples express themselves through matching looks in vibrant colours and unique styles. But “Would You Match Outfits With Your Significant Other?” is a common question with varied opinions.
This article will explore the history of matching outfits in the Middle East, popular fashion trends, and how couples express themselves through this fun style.
A Snapshot at Traditional Saudi Arabia and Middle Eastern Fashion
The traditional style of Middle Eastern fashion tends to be conservative and modest. Women often wear a hijab or niqab, a head covering in which only their eyes are visible. Loose clothing with long sleeves and pants is common for both men and women. Since it is so hot for much of the year, fabrics like cotton and linens are often chosen over heavy materials. Bold colours, patterns, and accessories are often used for special occasions, but neutral colours are preferred for everyday attire.
Traditional Middle Eastern clothing was used to communicate hierarchical status and identity. Within Arabia, the region was divided into tribes that had distinct textile production, dyes, and designs. While there were some similarities between tribes, each was considered to have its own style, which was highly valued. Clothing varied by place and profession. For example, Bedouin men tended to prefer white or bright clothing, while Sultanate men preferred bows and turbans.
Colour is also essential in traditional Saudi Arabia and Middle Eastern fashion. While black is seen as a sign of mourning, white symbolizes holiness and the movements of the Prophet Muhammad. Purple was a way of expressing joy and celebration, while red was a sign of spirituality and power. Different fabrics, such as wool and velvet, were also used to signal status.
How Did Matching Outfits Become Popular?
Matching outfit styles began appearing in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East in the early 2000s. Influenced by Western trends, some couples began to embrace more modern and daring fashion choices. This trend included wearing the same style of clothes from head to toe that incorporated the same colours, fabrics, and patterns. With more people travelling abroad, Western fashion trends have become more prevalent in the Middle East. This included wearing matching patterns and clothes for special occasions like weddings and engagements.
Young people began to take notice of matching outfit styles and eventually adopted them as their daily fashion choice. As more couples and young people started matching their outfits, it quickly became a status symbol. People in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries began to see how teams could express themselves through their clothes. This newfound freedom to express their love through matching outfits was lauded by many and quickly spread throughout the region.
Matching Outfits in Modern Times
Matching outfits are popular with couples of all ages in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East today. Rather than being seen as a courtship or sign of matrimony, it has become an expression of love and belonging. Couples often coordinate their outfits to suit their individual tastes and style. While some choose to use the same fabrics and colours, others prefer to mismatch with subtle variations. Either way, they are expressing themselves as a united team.
Paired sets of clothing and accessories are also widely used to create a coordinated look. Saudi Arabia and Middle Eastern people often use these sets together in eye-catching and harmonizing designs. Matching jewellery, sunglasses, shoes, and scarves are popularly featured to give couples a complete look.
The Pros and Cons of Matching Outfits
There are both pros and cons to matching outfits with your significant other. Plus, it can be adorable to show off your relationship and start conversations. It can also act as an expression of the couple’s unity and love, showcasing the strong bond they share. On the other hand, some people may view matching clothes as too cheesy and kitschy. It can also draw unwanted attention and be subject to judgement or scrutiny.
Conclusion
Wearing matching outfits with your significant other is becoming increasingly common in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Couples of all ages engage in this trend to express their love and devotion. With its roots in traditional Saudi Arabia and Middle Eastern fashion, matching outfits have become a popular way for couples to express themselves through vibrant colours, patterns, and accessories. Whether you like matching outfits with your loved one or not, it’s clear that this fashion trend is here to stay.
