India’s sarees to Japan’s kimonos: 5 traditional Asian outfits that you must try once

Asian countries are known for their rich and diverse cultures with different languages, traditions, food preferences, and clothing styles. The colourful and unique wardrobe of each nation has a history and meaning that have been carried through the centuries. While some have evolved to modern versions, others are still following the traditional drapes and flairs. Let’s see 5 traditional Asian outfits one can try when travelling to the world’s largest continent.

The hanbok is South Korea’s traditional attire, which originated from ancient royalty who wore it on special occasions. A full set of Hanbok for men includes a vest, a top jacket, and a pair of loose pants. For women, it consists of a top jacket, an underskirt, a flair skirt, and a beautiful clothing belt. Hanbok is becoming more popular with the rise of K-dramas, where artists are often seen wearing them, which has brought a resurgence of interest across the globe.

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One of the most popular Asian attire is the kimono from Japan. A traditional article of clothing, it is available in various styles and mainly includes a T-shaped, full-length wrap garment teamed with an obi or belt. The colours of a kimono are symbolic and represent seasons, age, marital status, and even political class. Though it was initially worn every day, now women only wear it on special occasions.

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A saree is the traditional female garment worn in South Asian countries like India and Bangladesh. It is a long fabric lengthening between 15 to 30 feet, which is wrapped around the waist gracefully with neat pleats and then draped over the shoulder in a very refined and particular manner. Although there’s more than one way to wear it, with every culture having its draping style. Additionally, you will require a blouse and a matching petticoat that comes in combination with the six yards of drape.

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Chut Thai translates to ‘Thai outfit’, which is the traditional ensemble of Thailand. There are different types of chut Thai for women composed of different styles, patterns, and accessories. The Ruean Tonne is one of the most casual outfits, which consists of a long tube-style skirt called a sinh and is worn with a long-sleeved collarless blouse. The shibori has two front pleats and is often decorated with gold- or silver-coloured thread.

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Ao Dai is Vietnam’s traditional clothing and is the same for men and women, although it is mostly worn by women. It consists of an ankle-length one-piece with long sleeves and slits down both sides that extend up to the hip. It is teamed with trousers underneath and is body-fitted, emphasising the curves of a woman. It is worn during weddings and the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It is also a uniform for teachers, students, flight attendants, and receptionists in the country.
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