



Ever wondered how to combine traditional elegance with modern style in your wardrobe? Armenian fashion offers a unique way to achieve this, but exploring its rich history and current trends can be challenging.
You’re not alone in wanting a style that honors cultural roots while integrating contemporary looks. We’re here to guide you through Armenian fashion. With our insights, you’ll learn how to:
- Understand historical influences
- Identify key fashion trends
- Integrate traditional elements into modern outfits
Learn how to combine classic style with modern trends to make a statement. Achieve a look that’s both timeless and sophisticated.
Historical Evolution of Armenian Fashion

Armenian clothing history shows a blend of Eastern and Western styles. Early clothes were made from cotton and silk, and women’s outfits often had detailed embroidery.
The Traditional Armenian Clothing, “Taraz,” was worn with a belt to show status and regional identity. Silk was used for special occasions, and cotton for everyday wear. Over time, Armenian clothing, like embroidered shirts, changed by mixing in new styles while keeping its unique look.

3 Centuries of Armenian Fashion
18th Century

In the 18th century, Armenian clothing was shaped by Ottoman and Persian styles due to Armenia’s strategic location. Clothing indicated social status, with notable regional differences.
Women: Traditional Armenian women wore long dresses called taraz (թարազ), made from wool, cotton, or silk. These dresses featured colorful sashes and belts at the waist and were often embroidered. Wealthier women chose silk or velvet gowns with gold and silver embroidery and added jewelry.
Men: Armenian men’s attire included long, loose-fitting robes, wide trousers, and a shirt. They typically wore a Chokha (coat), similar to those in the Caucasus. A wide leather belt, varying in decoration, was a distinctive feature of their clothing, reflecting their social status.
19th Century

In the 19th century, Armenia was under Ottoman and Persian rule until parts of the country joined the Russian Empire. This period saw Armenian clothing blend with European styles, especially among the urban elite.
Women: By the mid-19th century, women in cities wore Western-style dresses with puffy sleeves and lace. Rural areas kept traditional Armenian dresses. For formal events, satin and tulle became popular.
Men: Men also switched to European styles, with rich men wearing Western suits. In rural areas, traditional coats like the Archalukh continued. The fez and Russian military uniforms were common in Russian-controlled areas.
20th Century

The early 20th century in Armenia was marked by the 1915 genocide and Soviet control starting in the 1920s. These events influenced Armenian clothing, blending traditional styles with Soviet and Western trends.
Women: In the early Soviet era (1920s-1950s), traditional Armenian outfits like the taraz were worn only on special occasions. Everyday clothing became practical and modern, with simple dresses, blouses, and skirts. By mid-century, Western styles, like A-line skirts, grew popular.
Men: Men’s clothing included Soviet uniforms or Western suits for formal events. Everyday attire was practical, aligning with socialist ideals. In rural areas, traditional garments like the Chokha were still worn but became less common.
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Traditional Style

Women’s Traditional Armenian Clothing (Taraz): The Taraz is a significant symbol of Armenian Culture. Traditional Armenian dresses are long, colorful, and made of silk or velvet, with detailed embroidery and beads. They come with fancy headdresses and jewelry.
Men’s Traditional Armenian Clothing: Traditional Armenian men’s clothing includes long coats, fitted jackets over wide trousers, a woolen cap, and boots.
Contemporary Armenian Fashion

Western Influence: In Yerevan, modern Armenian clothes are similar to Western styles, like jeans, blouses, and suits.
Street Style: In Yerevan, young people wear sneakers, big jackets, jeans, and graphic tees, mixing cool and trendy styles
Eco-Friendly and Ethical Fashion

Sustainability Movement: In Armenia, eco-friendly fashion is growing, especially among young designers. They use recycled materials and ethical practices, combining global trends with Armenian style.
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4 Notable Armenian Fashion Designers
Alain Mikli

Background and Style: Alain Mikli, born in 1955 in Lyon to Armenian parents, is a well-known eyewear designer. His Armenian heritage influences his designs, which mix traditional patterns with modern styles. His glasses are famous for their bold shapes and bright colors.
Signature Work and Impact: Mikli’s eyewear combines Armenian and modern styles and is featured in dramatic fashion shows. Celebrities like Elton John and Kanye West wear their glasses. After starting Alain Mikli International and selling it to Luxottica in 2013, he has made a big impact on the luxury eyewear industry.
Kevork Shadoyan

Style and Aesthetic: Kivork Shadoyan blends traditional and modern styles for unique designs.
Signature Work: Shadoyan is known for shows that mix traditional Armenian taraz with modern fashion.
Aram Nikolyan

Style and Aesthetic: Aram Nikolyan is celebrated for his avant-garde approach to Armenian fashion. His designs are noted for their bold colors, dramatic shapes, and detailed craftsmanship. Drawing from Armenian art and history, he incorporates cultural symbols and motifs into his creations.
Signature Work: Nikolyan combines traditional Armenian techniques with modern fashion. His designs have been featured in fashion shows in Armenia and around the world, showing his mix of old and new styles.
Vahan Khachatryan

Style and Aesthetic: Vahan Khachatryan combines traditional Armenian clothing with modern styles. His designs are luxurious, with detailed embroidery and rich materials like velvet and silk.
Signature Work: Khachatryan is known for his high-end bridal and evening gowns. His collections mix traditional Armenian patterns with modern fashion.
2 Key Influences in Armenian Fashion
Geographical Influence

Climate and Terrain: Armenia’s weather and mountains have shaped its clothing. Cold areas used warm woolen clothes, while mild areas used lighter fabrics like cotton and silk. Today, designers use breathable materials reflecting these conditions.
Regional Influence: Regional Influence: Armenia’s nearby regions affect its traditional clothing. Geometric patterns, detailed jewelry, and rich textiles are features shared with neighboring regions. This blend of styles adds a distinct touch to Armenian clothing, connecting it with Eastern and regional fashion elements.
Media and Celebrities


Media: Magazines, TV shows, Instagram, and YouTube feature Armenian Costumes. Influencers like Tatev Karapetyan and Anna Harutyunyan highlight Armenian styles.
Local Celebrities: Iveta Mukuchyan and Sirusho wear Armenian clothes, influencing local fashion.
International Celebrities: Kim Kardashian helps spread Armenian fashion worldwide by wearing Armenian designs.
Fashion Shows: Armenian Fashion Week and shows in Los Angeles and Paris highlight Armenian designers.
Social Media: Instagram and TikTok show both traditional and modern Armenian clothing trends.

Armenian Fashion: A Recap
Armenian fashion blends traditional and modern styles, showing Armenia’s culture and current trends. Designers like Vahan Khachatryan and Aram Nikolyan blend old and new styles, making Armenian fashion famous. Armenian designers use fashion to highlight the country’s history and make an impact globally.
FAQ
Traditional Armenian fashion features garments like the Taraz, made from silk or cotton with elaborate embroidery. Women typically wear long, flowing dresses, and men choose tunics and trousers with symbolic designs.
Modern Armenian fashion combines traditional elements with contemporary designs. Designers incorporate Armenian motifs into new styles, using materials like silk and cotton to create innovative and global-ready clothing.
Prominent designers include Vahan Khachatryan, known for his luxurious couture, and Aram Nikolyan, famous for his avant-garde creations. Both integrate Armenian cultural themes into their designs.