By S3eedalmehairi

Clothing is more than just something we wear—it’s a powerful tool for expressing who we are, especially as entrepreneurs. The colors we choose can influence how we feel, shape others’ perceptions of us, and communicate aspects of our identity and brand. From psychological studies to cultural analysis, colorful clothing has been a topic of interest for many scholars. In this post, we’ll explore how color affects personal presentation, and dive into the growing trend of colorful traditional attire in the UAE, such as the kandura, abaya, thawb, jalabeya, and women’s thawb, while also reflecting on the history of these garments before the 1970s.

The Psychology of Color in Clothing

Colors aren’t just about aesthetics—they have the power to impact our mood, behavior, and how we present ourselves to the world. For entrepreneurs, your outfit can set the tone for the day, fuel creativity, and communicate confidence to those around you. Studies show that warm colors like red and yellow can energize and inspire positivity, while cooler tones like blue and green can evoke feelings of calm and trust (Kaya & Epps, 2004).

Wearing red, for example, doesn’t just make a statement—it commands attention. Research shows that wearing red can make you appear more attractive and confident, traits that can be highly advantageous in networking or pitching scenarios (Elliot & Niesta, 2008). Conversely, blue is often linked to professionalism and reliability, which is why it’s a go-to for business settings (Gerend & Sias, 2009).

Color and Personal Identity

As entrepreneurs, the way you dress and the colors you choose are extensions of your personal brand. According to sociological theories, clothing plays a role in shaping our personal identity and how we want the world to perceive us (Goffman, 1959). When you choose your wardrobe, you’re not just choosing fabric—you’re shaping the narrative of who you are as a leader, creator, and visionary.

In the UAE, traditional garments such as the kandura and abaya are deeply rooted in cultural identity. The kandura, usually worn in white, signifies simplicity and purity for men. Women, on the other hand, traditionally wear the black abaya, symbolizing modesty and elegance. These garments are more than just attire—they communicate personal and cultural values, as well as social status (Schloss et al., 2013).

The Emergence of Colorful Kanduras, Abayas, and Thawbs

In recent years, fashion in the UAE has undergone a transformation, embracing more colorful and expressive versions of traditional garments. While white remains the standard for men’s kanduras, many are now selecting pastels, earthy tones, and deeper shades for special occasions or to showcase their personal style. For women, the once exclusively black abaya has evolved into a variety of colorful and intricately designed pieces, often in rich hues such as burgundy, navy, and olive green. This shift allows individuals to remain connected to their traditions while expressing their unique personalities.

This move toward colorful attire reflects broader cultural and social changes. As entrepreneurs, we understand the importance of adapting while staying true to our roots. Globalization, social media, and international fashion trends have all played a role in this evolution. Local designers have masterfully integrated modern elements into traditional garments, offering more options for those who want to stand out while maintaining their cultural heritage (McNeill & Moore, 2015).

The Women’s Thawb and Jalabeya: UAE Fashion Before the 1970s

Before the 1970s, women in the UAE wore a variety of traditional garments that, while modest, were often brightly colored and decorated with intricate details. Two notable examples of these pre-abaya garments are the thawb and jalabeya. The thawb was a long, flowing dress made from lightweight fabrics suitable for the desert climate, often adorned with colorful embroidery and beads. This garment allowed for both practicality and an expression of regional identity.

The jalabeya, another traditional garment worn by women across the Arabian Peninsula, was also a common sight in the UAE before the dominance of the abaya. Unlike the modern black abaya, the jalabeya was brightly colored, with intricate patterns and embellishments, making it a staple for daily life and special occasions like weddings. Gold and silver threading, bold colors like turquoise and magenta, and detailed stitching patterns were all ways for women to communicate their creativity and individuality.

Even though the black abaya became the dominant form of traditional dress in the late 20th century, the vibrant spirit of UAE fashion lives on through the resurgence of colorful jalabeyas and abayas. This connection between past and present illustrates the ongoing balance between modesty and self-expression in UAE fashion.

Cultural and Social Influences on Color Choices

The colors we wear are often influenced by social and cultural norms. Pierre Bourdieu argued that clothing serves as a marker of social status and group identity (Bourdieu, 1984). In the UAE, traditional garments have always been symbols of cultural identity, and the recent introduction of vibrant colors offers individuals the opportunity to add a personal twist to these customs.

Historically, certain colors have been associated with wealth and status. For instance, in ancient Rome and China, purple was reserved for royalty due to its rarity. Today in the UAE, colors like gold, royal blue, and rich greens are often seen at special occasions, symbolizing luxury and prosperity. The trend toward colorful kanduras and abayas highlights how people in the UAE are blending tradition with modernity, showcasing a unique fusion of the old and new (McNeill & Moore, 2015).

Modesty and Modern Fashion: Finding a Balance

A central value in traditional Emirati clothing is modesty. As entrepreneurs, we, too, must find ways to express individuality while honoring core principles. The abaya and kandura are garments that embody this value. While fashion has evolved to incorporate new colors and designs, these garments still maintain the modesty central to Emirati and Islamic culture.

For example, modern abayas may feature vibrant embroidery or patterns, but they still offer the coverage that defines the garment. Similarly, men’s kanduras may now be available in softer pastel colors, yet they maintain their traditional form. The balance between modesty and fashion demonstrates how we can embrace innovation while respecting cultural values, much like the balance entrepreneurs must find between innovation and tradition.

Practical Tips: Choosing the Right Colors

As entrepreneurs, our clothing is a form of personal branding. Here are some tips to help you make intentional color choices in your wardrobe:

Think about the setting: The colors you wear should reflect the occasion. For formal events, darker shades of abayas or kanduras are ideal, while lighter pastels can work well for casual meetings or creative sessions.

Express your personality: Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors that reflect your personal brand. Whether it’s a bold red or a calming blue, the colors you wear tell a story about who you are as a leader and a visionary.

Stay true to tradition: While it’s important to embrace modern fashion trends, remember to honor the cultural significance of traditional garments. Even when choosing a more colorful abaya or kandura, respect the values that these garments represent.

Conclusion

Clothing is a form of non-verbal communication that conveys who we are, what we believe, and where we come from. In the UAE, the rise of colorful kanduras, abayas, and the rich history of jalabeyas and women’s thawbs reflect how fashion can evolve while respecting tradition. Entrepreneurs, much like fashion innovators, understand the importance of finding this balance between honoring the past and embracing the future.

As you make your clothing choices, remember that the colors you wear can communicate a lot about your personal brand and the values you hold. By understanding the psychology behind color and the cultural shifts in traditional attire, you can make more intentional choices that reflect both your individual style and your respect for heritage.

Citations and Sources:

1. Kaya, N., & Epps, H. H. (2004). Relationship between color and emotion: A study of college students. College Student Journal, 38(3), 396-405.

2. Elliot, A. J., & Niesta, D. (2008). Romantic red: Red enhances men’s attraction to women. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 95(5), 1150–1164. [Link](https://doi.org/10.1037/a0012645)

3. Gerend, M. A., & Sias, T. (2009). Message framing and color priming: How subtle threat cues affect persuasion. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 45(4), 999-1002.

4. Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Anchor Books.

5. Schloss, K. B., Strauss, E. D., & Palmer, S. E. (2013). Object color preferences. Color Research & Application, 38(6), 393-411.

6. McNeill, L., & Moore, R. (2015). Sustainable fashion consumption and the fast fashion conundrum: