Contemporary Saudi Arabian Women's Dress

Abstract

Traditional female dress and clothing market sources in Saudi Arabia were explored in relation to demographic variables. Data were gathered by interviews of 60 female nationals in Saudi Arabia. Demographic variables of age, education, marital status, socio-economic status, work, and travel were investigated as independent variables. Dependent variables included traditional clothing worn in public and private situations and the use of clothing market information and acquisition sources. Also descriptive information on traditional dress was obtained. Analyses included correlations and t-tests. Results indicated that traditional female outer dress is strongly prevalent in Saudi Arabia and was reflected in most situations investigated. Women who traveled, worked, and had a higher socio-economic status wore less traditional dress. Travel, work, education, age, and socio-economic status affected market information sought and market acquisition sources utilized regarding clothing.