Once again our tradition and culture has hit the fashion world with a huge boom! There is nothing that looks better than browsing through the archives of internationally renowned designers, celebrities and fashion tycoons only to see how they have derived inspiration from Middle Eastern society. Makeup, hair and clothing – you name it and you got it!

1. Kohl

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When Cleopatra introduced us to her deep black eye liner little did she know that she was setting herself as one of the most imitated icons in history. Historically used as a means of protection from the evil eye, antibacterial purposes and a deflection of light; Ancient Egyptians are to thank for the introduction of Kohl (eyeliner) – only the most sought after makeup item today.

2. Harem pants

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Dating back to 1910, Paul Poiret; the famous French fashion mogul brought harem pants straight into the fashion industry. Originating from Middle Eastern and Turkish traditions, there is nothing more comfortable than strutting a pair of comfortable pants while looking absolutely fabulous doing so – if you have any doubts check out the most recent fashion runway shows.

3. Bushy Eyebrows

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Another thanks to Cleopatra for strutting the trend of thick bushy eyebrows way before the rest of the world jumped on that wagon. Supernatural powers they believed? Worth the shot! Natural is key!

4. Kaftans

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Ancient Mesopotamia, more commonly labeled today as Syria, Iraq and Turkey, is where this stylish overly snug garment originates. We definitely all know where Dior, Pucci and Stella McCartney got their inspiration.

5. Henna tattoos

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Celebrating a special occasion? A holiday? A birthday? A wedding? Or just want to have fun, those meticulous hours of painting henna on your arms and legs and even your back is your best go to fashion accessory – just ask Rihanna!

6. Hijabs and abayas

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Dolce & Gabbana says it all this Spring 2016! Hijabs and abayas – only the strongest tradition in Middle Eastern history has hit the fashion world with a huge bang.

And all we are famous for is the invention of Algebra?

This post is a StepFeed Community post, written by a guest contributor. Maya Moussa also blogs at The Wire Mannequin . If you’re interested in contributing to the StepFeed Community, please contact [email protected].