Traditional Ethiopian dress: elegant men's and women's attire in white cotton threads

In the alleys of historic villages and the corridors of modern fashion houses in EthiopiaThe white cotton color remains dominant, as the traditional dress is not just a piece of clothing to cover the body, but rather a “national identity” and a scent of an ancient heritage passed down through generations.

The Ethiopian dress, known as “Abyssinian Kemes,” is a symbol of dignity and beauty. Its pure whiteness and deep details reflect a long history of civilization in the African plateau.

 A dress with a hand-woven feel

The traditional dress for women in Ethiopia and Eritrea is known by several names, including “Habesha Kemes,” “Kedan Habeshi,” or “Zorya.” It is an elegant long dress consisting of a bodice and sleeves, handmade from white cotton fabric called “Shema” or chiffon in neutral colors such as gray and beige.

According to reports, the process of making “Shamma” is an art in itself that requires great patience, as the fabric is woven into strips approximately 90 cm long, then sewn together to form the dress.

Skilled cotton weavers take two to three weeks to complete enough fabric for one dress, giving it high material and sentimental value.

An Ethiopian woman's elegance is incomplete without the "Netela," a long, thin scarf made from the same fabric as her dress. Women wear it in various ways, whether by gently draping it over their shoulders or covering their head and chest, especially for formal occasions and when entering churches, adding a touch of modesty and sophistication.

The prestige of men: “The quota” and ”The tax collector” 

On the other hand, Ethiopian men wear clothes that combine practicality and symbolism. The traditional men’s outfit consists of long shirts with white collars and vests, and knee-high socks. The shirts are often decorated with mandarin-shaped necklaces.

The “kuta” stands out as a staple garment for men; it is a long jacket and trousers adorned with intricate patterns, symbolizing social status. For colder seasons, both men and women use the “jabi,” a heavier, blanket-like fabric for warmth, as well as the “shamma,” a versatile shawl that can be wrapped around the body in ways that reflect the dignified bearing of Ethiopian men.

A thriving industry: Between Alpaso braids and global design

Traditional dress is linked to other aesthetic details, such as the “albaso” hairstyle, a distinctive Ethiopian braid popular among the Amhara and Tigray groups. This heritage is no longer confined to villages; it has transformed into a thriving industry led by prominent names in the design world such as Admas, Nais, Farida Djel, and Finchetwa.