Wearing a thobe, a traditional and versatile garment from the Arabian peninsula, is an essential aspect of many cultures. But it’s more than just an article of apparel; it’s a statement of style, comfort, and individuality.
Everything you need to know is included in this article, including the history, styling tips, and matching accessories for the thobe. This will assist you in meeting the needs of your clients with confidence and flair, regardless of whether you are new to the industry or trying to grow your product range.
Table of Contents
Global thobes market overview
Top 5 ways to wear a thobe
Why embracing the thobe trend is a smart move for business buyers
Global thobes market overview
Thobes (or thawbs) are long, ankle-length robes typically worn by Muslim men in the Middle East and North Africa. They are sometimes called dishdasha, kandura, or jalabiya in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The thobe, which offers comfort and modesty, was created years ago to withstand the extremes of the desert heat.
The thobe’s beautiful design, long sleeves, and figure-fitting silhouette make it stand out. Traditionally, thobes are composed of lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, which makes them perfect for hot weather in Arab countries.
Over the years, the thobe has symbolized cultural identity and a sense of pride. It was worn daily and during festivities throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the larger Arabian Peninsula. Its design has evolved while maintaining its traditional essence.
The market for Arab thobe fabric was valued at USD 104.97 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% from 2024 to 2032, reaching USD 247.5 million. It is anticipated that travel, disposable income, and shifting fashion trends would propel industry expansion.
Top 5 ways to wear a thobe
1. Worn with a kefiyyeh
Wearing a thobe with a keffiyeh is a traditional ensemble deeply rooted in the Arab world. It is a historical and cultural emblem of ancestry. It’s a traditional dress that speaks confidence. At the same time, the keffiyeh, a square cloth worn on the head and secured in place by agal, covers one’s head, provides protection, and holds special symbolic importance.
The thobe with keffiyeh is a complete ensemble frequently worn for formal events and national holidays in the islamic tradition. They boldly embody a sophisticated elegance and a wealth of cultural traditions.
2. Layered with a blazer or jacket
Layering a thobe with a blazer has become popular, especially among those who want to blend traditional attire with a modern, professional look. A well-fitting blazer or a sleek jacket can transform the traditional thobe into business wear for formal events or even chic nighttime outings.
A neutral-colored blazer over a white or light-colored thobe creates a clean, sophisticated look, while a darker jacket can add a bold, contrasting element. Whether a classic black blazer for a formal setting or a trendy leather jacket for a casual vibe, this layered approach allows the wearer to maintain the thobe’s traditional essence while embracing contemporary fashion sensibilities.
3. Worn with a hoodie
Pairing a thobe with a hoodie is a modern fashion trend that creatively blends traditional and contemporary styles, appealing especially to younger generations. This combination merges the flowing, elegant lines of the thobe with the casual, streetwear vibe of a hoodie, resulting in a comfortable and stylish look.
The hoodie is ideal for cooler climates. It adds warmth and versatility while allowing for self-expression through color and design. When worn with the hoodie, the thobe provides a more casual look.
4. Worn with a waistcoat
Wearing a thobe with a waistcoat is a traditional maneuver. It’s a simple method of transitioning your thobe from day wear to evening or wedding attire. In an instant, a waistcoat changes your traditional clothing to a formal attire. This combination perfectly balances traditional and contemporary fashion, making it a popular choice for special occasions, weddings, or formal gatherings.
The waistcoat adds structure and definition to the flowing lines of the thobe, highlighting the wearer’s silhouette and introducing a layer of elegance without compromising comfort. Whether paired with a matching waistcoat for a seamless look or a contrasting color to make a statement, this pairing offers a versatile and polished ensemble that blends cultural heritage with modern style.
5. Accessorize with sandals and wristwatches
Accessorizing a thobe with sandals or trainers and a wristwatch enhances the outfit with both comfort and style. Leather sandals complement the design of the thobe, which is meant for casual looks, mainly in hot weather and other casual cases. A wristwatch adds to this modern sophistication, be it classic or digital, making the final touch with the whole outfit.
All these accessories merge into a well-balanced and polished ensemble that intersects traditional attire with contemporary fashion, which can easily be considered for any casual or formal occasion.
Why embracing the thobe trend is a smart move for business buyers
The thobe trend is more than a nod to a fashion statement. It is an acknowledgment of a timeless garment as it evolves with modern fashion sensibilities. As a business buyer, embracing this trend offers an opportunity to cater to a growing market that values tradition and contemporary style.
These days the thobe, whether paired with blazers or modern accessories like hoodies, footwear, and wristwatches, offers a wide range of options that can appeal to diverse customer preferences. Stocking up on thobes and related items allows you to meet the demand for high-quality, stylish, and culturally resonant apparel. Visit Alibaba.com to shop for thobes and accessories that elevate your trendy apparel store.
