Developing Sustainable Traditional Costume Designs Inspired by Saudi Traditional Fashion

Abstract

Purpose: The paper aims to determine the features of traditional fashion preferred by Saudi women while designing sustainable modern styles inspired by Saudi cultural heritage. Design/methodology/approach: The descriptive-analytical method was used in this research, utilizing questionnaires as a tool to identify and define the required characteristics for the suggested designs. The population sample of the survey consisted of 300 Saudi women. Findings: Designing sustainable, developed traditional costumes that commensurate with the modern age without affecting its traditional spirit. The paper exposes that the majority of women in Saudi Arabia of different ages and social groups own traditional costumes. Original/value of the paper: The importance of the research is to preserve the traditional character, design sustainable traditional fashion, and create availability for it to be worn and converted into multiple diverse styles; furthermore, contributing to supporting and encouraging the national heritage and preserving it through the traditional fashion industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Implications: It is imperative that Ministry of Culture officials encourage and support the Saudi fashion industry. In order to produce and design sustainable fashion, mainly traditional, one must include courses in specialized fashion design programs that concern themselves with style sustainability. Another critical perspective to ponder is research; however, the research must be conducted to relate to the sustainability of developed traditional costumes.