Hybrid Henna Night

  • Nada Abughris

Hybrid Henna Night is a collection of photographs that document a Libyan brides henna night infused with Pakistani traditions from the grooms side. A Henna Night is a common bridal celebration within Middle Eastern and Asian cultures which is held before the main wedding day. With biracial marriages cultural traditions tend to intertwine leading to a richer and more diverse experience. These series of photographs document the bride wearing the Sudra, a traditional Libyan bridal outfit that requires an experienced fitter to wrap the long fabric around the bride and adorn her with gold jewellery and pearls. A shared tradition amongst all Henna Nights and where the name of the occasion originated from is applying henna on the brides hands. The guests and are also invited to apply henna on their hands for good luck.