Traditional Algerian dresses are a Cultural Heritage passed down through the generations
By Mohamed Rahal
The traditional Algerian dresses are a collection of clothing passed down and preserved by Algerians from generation to generation. It is worn particularly on occasions such as holidays, weddings, and circumcision ceremonies. Authentic traditional dress is a cultural component that highlights the Algerian individual’s attachment to his identity and heritage, deeply rooted in civilization. One can distinguish urban fashions from Algiers and its suburbs, those from the east around Constantine and Annaba, and those from the west around Oran and Tlemcen. Finally, there are rural fashions from a vast region, including the Kabylie region, the Aures, the Saharan Atlas, M’zab, and the deep desert. The Algerian Caftan
Algerian Caftan: It is a long cloak or cloak that reaches the knees, with wide, long sleeves that reach the elbows, worn over other clothing. The embroidery and handwork vary from person to person and from region to region. Previously, it was restricted to men, including princes and sultans, but became available to the general public during the Ottoman era. It has become more popular and widespread among Algerians, where it is worn today by both men and women, and each style has its own style for women. The Algerian caftan appeared in Algeria as a result of the Islamic expansion, especially during the Ottoman era. It was not present in Algerian heritage before this. The Algerian caftan has become the popular costume in some Algerian cities to this day, including Tlemcen, Algiers, Oran, and Blida.
Haik: The Haik is worn in Algeria by women in central Algeria, in the capital and its environs (Boumerdes, Tipaza, etc.), and in (Boussaâda, Laghouat, Ghardaïa, etc.), where it is called “Kambouz,” and in western Algeria (Tlemcen, Oran, etc.). In the west, it is often called “Kesa” or “Kassa” without the final hamza, as Algerians omit the final hamza in their speech, following their rule of softening the hamza.
Bernous: The burnous can be considered a national costume. It takes the form of a loose, sleeveless coat that covers the head, made of wool. It is made in various shapes, designs, and embroideries, especially for women.
Qashabiya: Similar to the burnous in concept, but with sleeves. Made of white or brown wool.
Qandoura_Al-Qasentine: The “Qandoura Al-Qatifa,” embroidered with gold threads, is worn by Constantine women during weddings and circumcision ceremonies. Commonly called the “Qandoura Al-Qasentine” or the “Qandoura Al-Farqani,” in honor of the Farqani family, pioneers in the field of tailoring in Constantine, the Qandoura is an indispensable part of a Constantine bride’s trousseau. It is a long, velvet dress with no collar and removable sleeves. Its origins lie in the cultural “mingling” that the ancient city of Al-Sakhr witnessed for centuries. It is embroidered with gold threads using the “Majboud” technique. This outfit, which was previously typically limited to a burgundy color, has undergone several changes, particularly in terms of the variety of colors and embroidery patterns. Brides can now choose from green, indigo, and purple.
The preparation process for this gandoura requires adherence to several specific rules. A typical design must be chosen and then placed on tanned leather. The design is then engraved on the leather, affixed with glue, and left to dry. The final stage is embroidery with “majboud” thread. This embroidery, which typically features motifs in the form of roses, butterflies, and birds, covers the entire gandoura, depending on taste. The traditional Constantine gandoura, which can take an entire year to prepare, is distinguished by its division into three parts, known locally as “kharrat,” which is the only way to achieve a wide-open shape (narrow at the top and wide at the bottom). Constantine women must wear a belt made of gold coins of varying denominations with this gandoura, called the “louiz belt.”
Malaya: A veil made of a single piece of fabric that women wear when leaving the house, usually accompanied by the “ajar” (niqab).
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