Clothes of the Ancient Greeks - Info sheet

The attire of the Ancient Greeks was both practical and a reflection of their social customs. Women typically wore a chiton, a long tunic made from cotton or linen, which served as their primary garment. For additional warmth and style, they would layer a himation, a type of cloak, over their shoulders, with the fabric's thickness varying to suit the changing seasons. Men, on the other hand, differentiated their dress by age; young men opted for shorter tunics, while older men favoured longer versions. Slaves had a more minimalistic approach to clothing, often wearing just a loincloth.

When it came to footwear, the Greeks had options ranging from simple leather sandals, ideal for the warm climate, to more robust high boots designed for horseback riding. Some individuals, however, chose to forgo footwear altogether and walked barefoot. Protection from the intense Mediterranean sun was important, prompting both men and women to wear wide-brimmed hats. In an era where tanned skin was not in vogue for women, they went to great lengths to maintain a pale complexion, even using white lead as a facial cosmetic despite its toxic properties. Adornment did not end with clothing, as jewellery was highly cherished in Greek society. This is evidenced by the discovery of bracelets, earrings, and necklaces in ancient tombs, indicating their importance in both life and death.