Traditional Garments of al-Bahah Province

Traditional Garments of al-Bahah Province reflect the customs and traditional dress code of al-Bahah Province in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The traditional costumes in the region varied, they included thobes and head coverings, among others. The designs of both men's and women's clothing were influenced by the economic conditions, the province's humble lifestyle, and the scarcity of fabrics in the past.

In the past, some men's costumes were made of cotton fabric, namely the dot fabric, a yellowish fabric also known as "Mubrim" because it was woven from twisted cotton threads. It has been agreed for the men of this province to dedicate one thobe for work and another for occasions, holidays, and celebrations.

Al-Khayaliyah Turban is a head cover for men. It is made of wool and comes in a variety of hues: red, navy, green, and brown.

The Mishlah -or Bishut as it is colloquially called- was expensive and rare at the time. Therefore, many family members and relatives used to share one Mishlah. It would be worn by whoever needed it on special occasions. If many members went to the same place, the eldest member or the one with the highest social status would wear it. People used to call it al-Bidi. It was a heavy and very thick cloth woven from sheep wool.

Black was the predominant color of women's traditional garments in al-Bahah Province. The dresses were wide and loose, and women used belts to cinch dresses to their waists. These clothes were manually embroidered and embellished around the chest and both sides before the advent of embroidery machines.

A white belt was commonly used to establish a contrast with the black dress. The belts used daily were made of colored fabrics.

It is known that women in al-Bahah Province used to wear a traditional garment known as al-Mashal in the past. Its name refers to something stored until needed. Women wore this robe only on occasions, holidays, and celebrations. It was heavily embroidered and embellished and was made of good quality material.

Women covered their heads with a shayla, a light, black cloth wrapped several times around the head and under the neck and topped with a yellow piece of fabric.

Some fabrics used by women include percale, a durable, shiny, and black fabric. They also include satin, which is still available today, and crêpe.