Ethnic fashion is taking over our wardrobes this year
Ethnic fashion isn’t new; it’s been around since the 80s and 90s. Tribal prints, warm colors, and comfortable pieces are the hallmarks of ethnic fashion. For those who want to take it a step further, embracing ethnic fashion is also a way to support communities by choosing clothing made by minority groups using traditional methods. It’s primarily about actively participating in fair trade and showcasing the skills and culture of these communities.
Specifics of ethnic fashion
Ethnic fashion refers to clothing creations (but can also include shoes and accessories) whose style or characteristics originate from the traditional clothing of an ethnic group, people, or community.
Moreover, certain distinctive features help to differentiate ethnic fashion from others:
Printed materials
Prints are one of the most common distinguishing features of ethnic fashion. Clothing designed in the purest ethnic style is often printed with patterns specific to a particular people or community.
The most common print is wax print, a pattern typically found on traditional African women’s clothing. In Africa, wax print is primarily featured on loincloths and headscarves, and gradually, it began to be used to design clothing and even to personalize shoes! Today, a wax print shirt or dress has become the hallmark of ethnic chic style.
We also can’t overlook the Aztec print, recognizable by its distinctive geometric patterns. If you visit certain online stores, you’ll notice that clothing from Ema Blues, for example, and especially the ethnic summer dresses on this fashion platform, beautifully feature the Aztec motif.
Finally, the Ikat print is also one of those frequently found in ethnicallyt is directly inspired by an Indonesian weaving and dyeing technique that produces bright and harmonious colors.
Materials made from natural fibers
The fabric is a key element of ethnic fashion. Natural fibers, such as cotton, are particularly favored, as seen in the wax print fabric. This fabric is waxed on both sides, giving it excellent water resistance.
Other materials, such as linen or silk, are also widely used for making ethnic clothing.
Most of the time, ethnic fashion refers to clothing sewn from light and breathable fabric, but it is also possible to find ethnic clothing in warm materials.
Virgin wool and cashmere, for example, are widely used in India for making traditional shawls and pashminas. Fashionistas who favor ethnic styles readily accessorize their outfits with one of these shawls, worn as a scarf, headband, or around the neck.
Warm colors
Ethnic fashion is characterized by its vibrant and warm colors, artfully combined. This riot of color is particularly evident in wax print and Aztec fabrics. It is by no means unattractive; on the contrary, it lends a certain “character” to the garments.
Ethnic clothing can also be solid colour, lthoughit is most often very bright.
Ethnic fashion-the must-have pieces
To embrace ethnic fashion, you absolutely must have these essential pieces in your wardrobe, including:
The little dress with an ethnic print
Ideal for wearing in summer or for beach holidays, the ethnic print dress is a light and stylish garment that suits all body types .
It is easily recognizable by the absence of sleeves, its V-neck sometimes accompanied by a small cord, and its thin strap belt.
This dress accentuates the waist, while its fluidity allows for easy movement.
The tunic
A tunic is a top, with or without sleeves, featuring a V-neck and a flowing drape over the bust and stomach. It can be worn both on vacation and at the office, as it pairs well with all sorts of looks. For example, you can wear it like a shirt over slim-fit trousers or over lightweight beach shorts.
The printed kimono
The kimono is a must-have, ethnically. It allows you to add an ethnic touch to a simple outfit, such as a fitted top and jeans, for example.
When it has long sleeves, the kimono can easily replace a summer jacket.
What style should you adopt with ethnic fashion?
Ethnic fashion cannot be encompassed by a single style. Here are a few style ideas you can adopt if you’re a fan of this type of clothing:Casuall boho style
The relaxed boho style allows you to showcase the most beautiful ethnic pieces in your wardrobe.
If your body shape allows it, don’t hesitate to put on a sarouel over a fitted top,f or example, and accessorize everything with a scarf around your neck or on your head.
