Art and Culture

| A fashion that Reflects Flamboyance |

Any fashion that is lucky enough to fall under the influence of three civilizations are certain to be an extraordinary blend of style and chic.

Algeria sits at the crossroads of three worlds, Arab, Mediterranean and African, and Algerian fashion has long been influenced by the fact that its unique location has been a place of historic meetings and exchanges.

Not surprisingly, Algerian designers have succeeded in combining the culture traditions with the influence of the environment of the country. These influences have found their way into the fashion industry and have foreshadowed several changes in the choice of color, design and pattern.

Women's costume in particular, successfully combines the modesty required under the Islamic law, with the flamboyance, utility and elegance. There is a strong emphasis on intricate decoration and colors. The use of colorful fabrics for clothing stands out against the predominant surrounding earth tones and the Algerian woman has kept her love for color and brightly colored patterns. Reds, yellows, greens and blues as well as many other color combinations are combined and finely embroidered with gold and silver threads.

The Karakou is a typical traditional dress and incorporates a velvet jacket embroidered in gold and silver worn with the traditional saroual (Arab pants) and comes from Algiers, the capital of Algeria.

The Blousa from Tlemcen, West Algeria is a full-length, straight-cut dress made entirely from lace and sequined chest.

The Djeba Fergani is the traditional dress from Constantine in the eastern side of the country. This dress is always made with velvet and embroidered by gold and silver thread. The sleeves can be made of lace. In the central region of Tizi-ouzou, the dress is mainly made from cotton and is completely embroidered at the neck and bodice as well as at the wrists. However, it is at wedding and other special occasions that these traditional dresses do justice to the affair. Distinctive jewelry is also worn.

As proof of innovation, many designers and dress-makers have succeeded in modernizing the traditional dresses of Algeria and adapting them to modern practical and functional clothes.

The fact that these forms of traditional dresses are still used is a tribute to its comfort and suitability for the climate. It also points to the pride that Algerians take in the tradition of their ancestors and their identity in the modern world.