Do you think wearing a kurta outside of Nepal is cultural appropriation?

Question

Hi everyone! 
I’m currently on a trip in Nepal and have really grown to love the kurtas that many women here wear! I think they’re so beautiful and so I bought a few that I started wearing here in Nepal. A lot of my Nepali friends encouraged me when I expressed interest in these pieces of clothing, and I haven’t encountered anyone that’s found it rude or offensive so far. I was wondering though what
 your thoughts are (especially if you come from a culture where kurtas are traditional clothes) on me continuing to wear kurtas outside of Nepal? I want to respect people’s culture and the last thing I want to do is appropriate it or make anyone uncomfortable. Please let me know your honest opinion!
For context, I am not from a culture that traditionally wears kurtas. I’m mixed with a Black mother and White father and grew up in the U.S.

Answer

So, I’m a white lady, and I’ll always defer to someone from the culture in question. However, I do own and wear something similar. I buy from a specific shop where I know the owner. She’s an immigrant who started as a shop assistant, and eventually bought the business. I’m happy my money goes to her. She’s lovely, and if anyone asks I use it as an opportunity to promote her business. It’s appreciation and giving credit vs. Appropriation. 
It’s a cultural item, but it’s not religious or sacred. I personally draw an appropriation line there. It’s also not a political symbol. I wouldn’t wear a dashiki in the US as they’re associated with Black Pride here, and that’s not my place to step on. You’re similarly buying from a retailer from the culture. It’s not a knock off where some unethical business is stealing designs and profiting at a culture’s expense. That’s also an appropriation line I try not to cross. 
Also, you look super cute.

Answer

I think it is appropriate and fine if you are wearing them appropriately, and you seem to be.

Answer

I am from Nepal and it’s totally fine to wear Kurta for anybody. It’s not a typical traditional attire, nepalese women wear it for comfort everyday. I have been living in US for last 14 years and I do wear it occasionally. If you love wearing them go for it, I don’t see any reason not to😊

Answer

I think as long as you are buying from the people in that culture and you’re not mocking them, it’s fine. Appreciation is very different than appropriation. Also take some time to learn about their history and stuff.

Answer

Sound like a great reason to visit Nepal more :)
I have a similar issue with my Sari. It’s gorgeous, but it was for a friend’s wedding in Mumbai so it was appropriate really for just that event.  I do still wear the gorgeous jewelry though. I think you can also wear as separates, the top with jeans and long cardigan or the bottom with a tank top.
Agree with ✈️, looks super cute!

Answer

I’m not Nepali, but your friends who are are encouraging it so I didn’t see why it’s a problem. I’d also note that you purchased them from Nepal from Nepali people and you’re acknowledging the clothing items are from the Nepali culture. If you were buying them from someone who isn’t Nepali and claiming it as a trend you’re starting, I think it would be very different.

Answer

You’re buying it from the people of that region and you’re being respectful. You aren’t wearing it as a costume or putting down that group of people. I don’t consider it appropriation. In my culture people also wear kurtas, I don’t see anything wrong with it. 
My issue usually though is that when people in the fashion industry think they are being innovative and copy designs from other cultures and price gouge to make money. You aren’t doing anything like that. You look beautiful by the way.

Answer

If you wear them appropriately, understand the culture and seek advice from those in the culture it sounds more like cultural appreciation

Answer

This is gonna sound bad, but will work out for you. 
But since you are not white. No one will care or say anything. So definitely go ahead and wear it. 
Don't get me wrong. I think its fine for anyone... but depending on where in the US you are and if your white. People will get up your butt about it these days lol

Answer

I think you look lovely!!

Do you think wearing a kurta outside of Nepal is cultural appropriation?

Let’s Glow

Glow is here for you on your path to pregnancy

25+ million

4.8 stars

20+

Getting Pregnant

Pregnancy

1st Year (Baby & You)

Baby Products