Fashion has existed for thousands of years as a means of communication, expression, and craftsmanship – and Ancient Egypt is no exception. From religious connotations to more practical concerns, fashion in Ancient Egypt had a wealth of symbolic and stylish meaning. This article will examine the interesting and intricate nuances of Egyptian fashion to discover its hidden meaning.
I. Crafting a Statement of Ancient Egyptian Fashion
Ancient Egyptian fashion was very much influenced by nature and religion. From the earliest days of Egyptian civilization, clothing was often used to set social classes apart and to express religious beliefs. While the style of Egyptian clothing changed over the years, certain elements remained prevalent and created a statement all its own.
The use of bright colors and ornate patterns was a defining feature of Ancient Egyptian fashion. Typically, high-ranking individuals would wear the most brightly colored garments as a show of their prestige. Common colors included deep blues and bright whites. Colorful patterns were also used to accentuate clothing, often featuring animals or birds.
Another element of Ancient Egyptian fashion was the jewelry that was used to accessorize various clothing items. Amulets, necklaces and bracelets were crafted from precious stones and often depicted gods or goddesses of Ancient Egyptian mythology. Jewelry was also used to indicate social status. For instance, only Pharaohs could wear the Uraeus, a headpiece with a cobra on a crown.
The use of linen and sheer fabrics was another defining feature of Ancient Egyptian fashion. Linen was the most frequently used material in Ancient Egypt as it was light and perfect for the hot climate. Signature to Ancient Egypt, each piece of linen was usually hand-painted with hieroglyphic decorations. It was then bound together with thin cords to give it a finer look.
In summation, Ancient Egyptian fashion created a powerful statement through the use of colorful colors, intricate patterns, ornate jewelry and lightweight materials that were both functional and fashionable.
II. Seeking Meaning Behind the Fashion
Fashion has been an integral part of human society since the dawn of civilization, but its relevance increased significantly during the 20th and 21st centuries. Through fashion, we express our unique personalities, values, and experiences.
Identity and Gender
Fashion can be used as a way to explore our identities and to push the boundaries of gender and representation. Fashion is an integral part of a person’s identity, and the way we present ourselves to the world. Through fashion choices, we can make statements about who we are or who we want to be.
Social Context
Fashion can also be understood in the context of the society we live in. Popular styles of clothing often reflect the social, economic, and cultural values of the time. Trends such as the flapper dress in the 1920s spoke to the freedoms of women in society at the time. This concept also extends to current day, with fashion trends like streetwear that are closely linked with trends in music and other art forms.
Meaningful Fashion
When it comes to fashion, the items we choose to wear are just as meaningful as what we decide to leave out. It is up to us to decide which clothes we wear and which messages they translate. Through conscious fashion choices, we can make powerful statements about who we are and what we truly value.
III. Dressing the Crowns and Classes of Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians embraced an intricate set of rituals and customs for honoring their kings and gods, and fashion played a critical role in that veneration. The Pharaohs of Egypt had a monopoly on certain clothing items, such as the traditional crowns, tunics, and pleated skirts. Similarly, the various classes of Egyptian society adopted other clothing items as a way to identify their social standing.
The traditional Pharaohs’ crown was made from a variety of materials including gold, precious stones, and beads. The White crown and Red crown were symbols of the Upper and Lower Egypt dynasties, respectively. They typically wore traditional pleated kilts with beaded anklets, armlets, and bead necklaces. Tunics were also popular among the Pharaohs, although their styles varied greatly.
Members of the upper class Egyptian society were usually of the higher land-owning class and had some of the highest-ranking positions in government. They wore garments typically made out of fine linen with carefully tailored designs. Clothing items such as rings and headdresses were also commonly used to distinguish members of this class.
The lower-class Egyptians typically wore clothing items made from materials such as leather and linen. They wore simple tunics and kilts that were often stained from the dirt of the fields. The garments worn by this class were often less ornate than those of their royal counterparts.
- Upper class Egyptians: Fine linen with tailored designs, rings, headdresses.
- Lower class Egyptians: Leather/linen tunics and kilts.
- Pharaohs: White/Red crowns, pleated kilts, tunics, bead necklaces.
IV. An Everlasting Impact of Ancient Egyptian Fashion
It’s no secret that the Ancient Egyptians were fashion forward, setting trends that would still impact us today. Despite modern fashion innovations, the lasting influence of Ancient Egyptian fashion is evident.
- Hieroglyphic Jewelry – Ancient Egyptians were known for their intricate jewelry, often featuring hieroglyphs, depicting gods, symbols of royalty or scenes from Ancient Egyptian mythology. These powerful symbols are still popular today, with hieroglyphic jewelry can still be seen worn throughout society.
- Clothing Styles – Ancient Egyptian clothing has been seen in modern day fashion, such as wrap dresses and tops, tunics, and linen. Sleeveless tops, lightweight cloaks and capes, open-toe sandals, and pleated skirts have all been inspired by Ancient Egyptian clothing.
- Texture & Color – Ancient Egyptians often incorporated texture into their clothing and jewelry, such as beaded necklaces and lapis lazuli. Rich, deep color choices like turquoise blues, deep golds, and vibrant purples were favored by the Egyptians and can still be seen in modern fashion.
Ancient Egyptian fashion remains one of the most inspiring eras of fashion history, its influence still shaping modern trends. It has been credited with inspiring fashion figures, designers, and aesthetic tastes around the world. From Egypt’s iconic imagery and textiles, to its color palette and accessorizing, Ancient Egyptian fashion continues to make an everlasting impact.
V. How to Incorporate Ancient Egyptian Style Into Your Wardrobe
Ancient Egyptian fashion is a timeless style that never fades from modern fashion culture. Whether you’re trying that current Cleopatra-meets-cool-girl vibe or you’re seeking a more traditional aesthetic, you can easily incorporate ancient Egyptian style into your wardrobe.
Accessorize – Egyptian style jewelry was often made of gold, gemstones, and seashells. Bold bold gold jewelry shapes like pyramids, cobras, and the Eye of Horus will create a beautiful ancient Egyptian influence in any outfit.
Color Palette – Incorporating Egyptian colors into your wardrobe is a great way to bring a classic style into any ensemble. Look for gold, white, turquoise, and sapphire shades or combine the eye catching colors together for a cool colorful look.
Fabric and Patterns – Linen and cotton were commonly used fabrics in Egypt. Choose fabrics like linen to mimic the classic style. Opt for garments with bold angular patterns, especially those that resemble hieroglyphics and ancient pattern motifs.
- Accessorize with bold golden jewelry.
- Incorporate colors like gold, white, turquoise, and sapphire.
- Choose fabrics like linen and cotton.
- Look for bold angular patterns.
Ancient Egyptian fashion will take your wardrobe to the next level with a timeless style. Incorporate all of these elements together and you will have the perfect modern ancient Egyptian inspired look.
Overall, it is clear that fashion in Ancient Egypt had an important place in the lives of its people. From religious symbolism to trends and styles, the clothing and accessories of the day gave voice to values and status in a uniquely symbolic visual language. Helping to create a rich tapestry of cultural expression, this era of fashion offers us an insight into a society much different than our own.
