Ancient Greek Costume

Since Greece was the oldest civilization, the Greeks were the trend-setters of a number of things, the ancient Greek hairstyles inclusive! In the simplest of terminology, hairstyle is a style in which an individual’s hair is cut and set. The ancient Greek hairstyles were an indispensable part of their personalities, aptly reflecting the social, political and cultural history of the Greek period. These hairstyles were also a revelation of the customs, uniqueness and characteristic persona of the ancient Greeks.

Ever since the beginning of civilization, men and particularly women have been paying a lot of attention to the way their hair is done. Women obviously have been always more overprotective about their hair, because well-kept hair are a part of the concept of good looks, adornment and pleasant appearance. Even in the times as far back in history as the Greek civilization, people have paid attention to beauty and personal hygiene. Ancient Greek Hairstyles are no exception.

Greece is possibly one of the world’s richest countries when it comes to history and culture. A lot of our present existence be it the language or customs, have somehow or the other evolved from Greek civilization. In fact even the fashion industry has its roots in the ancient Greek costume. Greece was famous for not only its culture but also its mythology and of course the Greek Gods! Large figures of Apollo, Zeus and all of the Gods of Mt. Olympus draped in their impressive ancient Greek costumes still stand tall at Delphi and all over Greece. It is believed that there was a 40-foot statue of Zeus at Olympia!

Different periods of Greek history left their mark on the costumes worn by the Greeks. The weather too had its affect as some Greeks wore cloaks during cold. Light leather sandals or boots were a part of the ancient Greek costume to be worn for going outdoors. Costumes for babies were generally linen diapers, though older children wore a cloth wrapped around their waist.

Along with the regular chitons, the ‘peplos’ was a part of the costume of women. It was a shorter tunic worn over the chitons, and was mostly embroidered. These basic costumes were worn by Greeks for centuries. In fact, when studying about Greek costumes it becomes quite clear that the people of Greece were definitely concerned about simplicity and comfort of their attire.