Albanian national costumes are among the most diverse and visually striking traditional garments in the Balkans. Shaped by centuries of history, regional influences and craftsmanship, these clothes vary dramatically from one area of the country to another – ranging from the structured, bell-shaped xhubleta of the north to the embroidered vests and wide-legged poture trousers of the south. While many elements are shared, each region has its own distinct styles, colors and meanings tied to social status, age and occasion. For those interested in seeing these garments up close – or even trying them on – Albanian Night in Tirana offers a unique opportunity: every evening at 19:00, guests can wear traditional Albanian clothing, learn about their history, and capture the moment in photos!
For those curious to learn more about traditional Albanian clothing, we put together this short guide to answer the question: what is the Albanian national costume?
The Albanian National Costume as a Link to the Past
The Albanian national costume is not a single outfit, but rather a diverse collection of garments worn across Albania’s many regions, shaped by centuries of history and tradition. While certain elements, such as the fustanella (a white, pleated kilt for men) and the xhubleta (a bell-shaped skirt worn by northern women), have become iconic symbols of Albanian identity, the full picture is in fact varied and far more fascinating than just that.
Men’s clothing was traditionally practical yet decorative. In the north, men often wore the fustanella, a skirt-like garment that dates back to Illyrian times (5th–4th century BCE), offering freedom of movement in mountainous terrain. Other variations include tirq, narrow wool pants decorated with braids, and poture, wide-legged trousers favored in southern Albania, particularly in regions like Labëria and Saranda. Social class often dictated the material and embroidery; the wealthier the man, the more ornate the costume.
Women’s costumes were even more diverse. The xhubleta, still worn ceremonially today, is perhaps the most distinct garment in all of Albanian traditional dress. It consists of layers of felt, strips of embroidery and decorative cords, forming a structured silhouette that sways as the woman moves. The xhubleta is believed to have roots in ancient Mediterranean civilizations and is still preserved in regions like Malësia e Madhe and Dukagjin, which is where the 3 xhubleta dresses Albanian Night has on display in our Costume Hall hail from. Other common elements in women’s clothing include the këmishë e gjatë (long shirt), përparje (apron) and wrap-style skirts or trousers, each unique to the region where they originated.
These outfits were more than just fashion – they were symbols. Clothing denoted not only geographic origin but also marital status, age, religion, and social standing. The use of color was particularly symbolic: red for young brides to symbolize fertility and good luck, black for widows or elder women, and bright accents to signify festivity.
Traditional Albanian Clothing’s Regional Diversity
Traditional Albanian clothing is incredibly varied, with styles differing dramatically from north to south. The highlands of the north favored heavy woolen garments and structured cuts like the xhubleta, while coastal and southern areas leaned into lighter materials and looser fits, suitable for warmer climates.
In northern Albania, women’s clothing emphasized modesty and richness in detail. The xhubleta often featured gold and silver embroidery, and garments like the mbështjellëse (wrap dress) showed layers of influence from Illyrian, Byzantine and Ottoman eras. In southern Albania, especially among Orthodox communities, women wore garments with long pleated skirts and embroidered sleeves, often paired with woolen jackets and vibrant aprons.
Men’s wear also showed regional flair. In the Labëria region, the poture were often made from imported dark blue cloth and worn during weddings or holidays. The fustanella, once a unifying symbol across the Albanian territories and diaspora, was common in both north and south, and even among Albanian communities in Greece (Arvanites) and Italy (Arbëresh). Its use declined in the early 20th century, but it remains one of the most visually recognized symbols of Albanian heritage.
Notably, these traditional garments were usually handmade – sewn and embroidered by women in the family. The craftsmanship required to make a single xhubleta or an embroidered vest could take months, reflecting the wearer’s status and the family’s pride.
Albanian Traditional Dress is Still Alive
The term Albanian traditional dress encompasses this full array of historic garments – clothing that once told stories of love, war, faith and belonging. Despite modernization, many Albanians still wear traditional dress for weddings, festivals, and important cultural events. In fact, some villages maintain the tradition for major ceremonies, preserving not only the clothing itself but the techniques used to create them.
The xhubleta, now considered a UNESCO World Heritage Item, continues to be worn in weddings in the north. The tirq still appear during folk dances in Kosovo and northern Albania. In cities like Gjirokastër and Berat, traditional costumes are proudly displayed during festivals, drawing interest from both locals and tourists alike.
At Albanian Night, we celebrate this living legacy by offering a rare opportunity: visitors can not only learn about these garments during a walking tour of our center, and to also wear them during the nightly show, allowing plenty of time for photos and explanations of each garment, making this not just a cultural lesson, but a memory you can take home.
Whether you’re a traveler fascinated by Balkan history or simply curious about traditional Albanian clothing, the best way to understand it is to see – and wear it – yourself.
Book your spot at Albanian Night today and experience the tradition firsthand. Our 19:00 show includes a full cultural performance, live music and the unforgettable opportunity to try on Albanian traditional dress for yourself. Don’t just read about traditional Albanian costumes and this country’s history – experience it firsthand, for yourself!
