Morocco is renowned worldwide for its cuisine, culture, the hospitality of its people, but also for its traditional attire. Caftans, jellabas, babouches, these evocative words of folklore and that make us travel. While styles change with the years, it remains that the quality craftsmanship is the common denominator of all these creations. Today, we focus on the jabador for men, the ultimate festive attire and which is gaining popularity.
The origins of the Jabador
Ancestral Know-how
Moroccan archives have documents that relate to progressive changes in traditional attire. It is believed that the jabador is the result of the evolution of a two-piece ensemble, consisting of a sarouel and a tunic. It would have been born from Ottoman, Persian, and Andalusian influences.
This outfit was worn both in the city and in the countryside, first under the djellaba. A sleeveless jacket, matching the rest of the outfit, is then added to the ensemble and gives birth to the jabador. Writings from the 16th century indicate that the jabador was then worn by the elite of Moroccan society at the time: notables, merchants, ambassadors, etc. An exceptional garment, worked by the golden fingers of the best artisans.
In the 19th century, European literature also mentions the jabador as the attire in use in Tanger, without the population renouncing its other traditional costumes.
Notable Evolutions
Like most cultural elements of a country, clothing changes according to regions, climate, or also imbues tribal particularities. The jabador is no exception to this rule, and there are differences noted depending on the various regions of Morocco. This garment will evolve, particularly in cities, where the modifications will be more blatant.
In the 20th century, many stylists wanted to highlight Moroccan culture, but by infusing it with a lot of freshness. This is when the sarouel will become a modern embroidered pants and the tunic will often be shortened. The transparent vest will be, in turn, a return to history, as it refers to a fabric revealed by Ahmed Al-Mansur in the 16th century.
Contemporary designers will reinterpret the jabador, but without betraying its cachet. It still serves as an exceptional garment, now worn for grand occasions.
Opportunities to wear a jabador for men
The jabador is making a big comeback in the wardrobes of men, whether they are Moroccan or not. In fact, this outfit has crossed the borders of the Sharifian kingdom and is now exported worldwide to shine during happy events.
Weddings
Weddings are a time when traditional clothing heritage is honored and traditions are renewed. The bride and groom wear different outfits and walk in front of familiar eyes. The Jabador is the traditional attire of the groom par excellence.
However, other people may also wear the Jabador during a wedding: the bearers of the bride and groom, during the ritual of the Amariya. The entrance of the young couple on the Amariya is a moment that is often eagerly awaited and the tradition is still respected, even by younger generations. Men who support this litter are usually dressed in a Jabador with a selham, whether they are colorful or in very neutral tones.”
Eid celebrations
On exceptional days, an exceptional outfit. Indeed, according to a prophetic tradition, it is customary for men to adorn themselves with their finest clothing to go to the Eïd prayer. The jabador is one of these clothes that, in addition to sublimating traditions, respects Islamic customs in terms of clothing.
Circumcision
Young children, or even babies, are not left out: they also have their own models of jabadors. Thus, on a marking event such as circumcision, parents want this day to be celebrated with all the traditions that apply.
To combine tradition and modernity
Muda Paris aims to showcase Moroccan craftsmanship while staying current. Our jabadors come in different coordinated colors, with a focus on fine embroidery, attention to detail, and quality fabrics. For all the men in your family, you can have matching jabadors that make the little ones proud. At Muda Paris, even babies can have a quality, well-groomed ensemble.
Now you know more about the jabador for men, an outfit that has not finished talking about it as it seduces timelessly. This habit is now exported around the world, highlighting the expertise of Moroccan artisans. If you liked this article, you will surely enjoy our article on gift ideas for Eid! And you, tell us in the comments if the jabador is part of your must-haves for the most important events, and what colors you cherish! ⬇️
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