National costumes that inspire designers
The world of fashion is an endless source of inspiration, so diverse and multifaceted restaurant surprises us all..And what inspires designers of all times!? The variety of different national costumes, of different peoples and times! Different fabrics, prints, textures and shapes combined with modern innovative ideas give national costumes a different life…a life on the catwalk….
Designers are constantly turning to ethnic motifs, reinterpreting them in modern collections, supplementing something, combining the impossible! Japanese kimono, Ukrainian embroideries, African bright motifs, Egyptian motifs, Chinese characters, Scottish cells and much more are used by fashion masters every season!
Japanese kimono
Kimono is not just a garment, but a symbol of Japanese culture, elegance and sophistication. In fashion, the kimono has been a source of inspiration for brands such as Dior, Gucci and Alexander McQueen. Designers use a loose fit, a wide obi waistband and traditional patterns, adapting them to a modern style.
Silk and satin and some Japanese kimono prints also make up many casual and business designs.
Ukrainian Vyshyvanka
The vyshyvanka – the traditional Ukrainian shirt is natural, with rich ornamentation – has long gone beyond the national costume. Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana and Isabel Marant used embroidery in their collections, turning it into a fashionable element of casual looks. Hand embroidery, symbolic patterns and natural fabrics make this piece timeless.
Scottish kilt
The kilt is a traditional men’s plaid skirt that symbolizes the Scottish identity. It has been the inspiration for brands like Vivienne Westwood and Givenchy, who have reinterpreted it in avant-garde collections. Today, the plaid print is one of the most recognizable elements of fashion. Different plaid prints can be seen in many collections every year.
Indian saree
The sari is not only the national costume of India, but also the embodiment of grace, femininity, luxury “ silk and satin” Bright colors, gold embroidery and flowing fabrics inspire designers such as Elie Saab and Naeem Khan. Today’s models are incorporating elements of the sari into evening gowns and cocktail attire. Even business outfits that are not very high on the conservative quotient utilize elements of the Indian sari, prints and decor.
Mexican Poncho
The poncho, a traditional Mexican cape cloak, has become a popular item with designers such as Ralph Lauren and Etro. Bright ethnic patterns, fringes and a loose fit make it a stylish and comfortable option for the cold season. Designers also use only a few details of this suit, which adds freshness to conservative, classic solutions
African fabrics and patterns
African prints (ankara) and colorful fabrics with geometric patterns regularly appear in the collections of Stella McCartney, Burberry and Versace. They are luxurious and contrasting and give the garments a distinctive feel and tell a story of the continent’s rich culture. If we look at African fabrics and prints, we find many animal motifs, colorful prints of the luxurious animals and birds of Africa. The nature of Africa is insanely beautiful and it is an endless source of inspiration for bold clothing and accessory brands.
Moroccan caftan
The kaftan embroidered with beads and sequins is one of the main elements of oriental fashion. It is worn not only in Morocco but all over the world, especially in evening wear. Designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and Zuhair Murad create luxurious interpretations of the kaftan with embroidery and beading. These are mostly handmade, but there are also automated solutions.
Kaftan stylistics are transformed into dresses, jackets, bags – such things are real art and works of high art!
How do national costumes influence fashion?
Modern designers use traditional elements in everyday clothing, creating a new aesthetic. It’s important to remember that there is a story behind every piece, and fashion is not just about trends, but a way to preserve cultural heritage in a new format.
National costumes continue to inspire designers around the world, proving that timeless style is first and foremost about respecting traditions and being able to reinterpret and make them modern. Inspiration and the creation of something new is always based on traditional historical elements with fresh notes of different interpretation.