By Reemsha Akbar
Omani or non-Omani, everybody celebrates National Day in full spirit, marching in parades across the country to express utter admiration and love for His Majesty and the land of Oman, from beautifully decorated roads and camouflaged vehicles to shops selling all sorts of relevant accessories and buildings illuminated with colours of the national flag.
On November 18th, the country celebrates its 48th National Day, and as everything is coordinating with the colours of the flag, so should be our outfits. Many shops are witnessing a brisk sale of wearable items that carry nationalistic touches. If you want to fully experience the joyful vibe of National Day, you need to get yourself accessories fit for the occasion. Here are some suggestions on where to get them:
Traditional Souqs, Hypermarkets and Neighbourhood Stores
As November approaches, you would spot shops with festive decorations scattered around the city, from Mutrah to Seeb. You could find National Day accessories at traditional souqs such as Seeb Souq and Mutrah Souq, as well as major hypermarkets and shopping centres such as Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket. And, you can even grab a few items at your local neighbourhood grocery store.
Gift Marts
If you are on a budget but still want variety, then head over to your nearest gift mart for affordable bulk shopping. Scarfs, caps, pin magnet, hair bands, glasses, funky red and green hair wigs, printed shirts, and flags are perfect and quick picks for dressing up and showing off your national day enthusiasm.
Online Shops
To make your 48th National Day more interesting and memorable, check out @om1970_ on Instagram, as they have got you covered in the style department. Their uber-cool trucker caps scream National loyalty and pride. The virtual shop also sells caps that have ’48 Oman’ written on them in Arabic, designed by an Omani calligrapher. You can also find their calligraphic designs on their lapel pins, which can be paired with a sleek dishdasha or an abaya. How to get all of these items you ask? Send them a direct message on Instagram and get your order delivered to your doorstep. No hassle nor no worries for the year’s patriotic march.
@prestigeoman is another favourite account of ours that sells exclusive items on Instagram. You can find luxurious velvet scarves in six different styles, covered in eye-catching Arabic designs. They are definitely something to complement your look on this national day.
If you happen to be running late, then go for a last minute fix by pulling out the greens, whites and reds in your wardrobe, to instantly make up a National Day outfit on the spot, and if you want to add a whimsical touch to your parading look, then wrap yourself in the national flag and serve an Omani superman cape.
The streets are ready to celebrate, dance and sing-a-long next Sunday, are you?
