Fashion goes way, way back, all the way back to the beginning of the human race. Our ancient ancestors may have focused on function, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t have their own style. The style of old-school mythology, of the Greeks, Egyptians, and even of the Norse, are being resurrected in modern fashion.
Circlets and Braided Bands
Simple circlets, embellished with gold leaves, were a favorite of Greek Gods and Goddesses, lounging riverside on Mount Olympus. This eccentric headgear may be too couture for some, but a gold circlet can be diluted into a headband with gold applique. The braided band is reminiscent of Egyptian Goddesses, sending sphinxes out to protect their kings and queens. Both of these regal accessories add an air of mystique to any outfit.
Chanel | Resort 2018
Gucci | Resort 2018
Gucci | Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear
Ready to rule? Add a gold applique to a simple headband, or braid some metallic gold fabric into a braided band.
3D Metallic Gold Fancy Floral Lace Trim/Applique – 5″
Metallic Rose Gold Faux Leather with a Elm Fabric Backing
Long Capes
The runway is no stranger to shorter capes, but the flowing and royal long capes of ancient princesses have started to make an appearance. Romans relaxed in thin, long capes, being fanned and fed grapes. Thicker capes are seen in Norse mythology, keeping Gods and Goddesses warm as they roam their snowy estates.
Gucci | Resort 2018
Dsquared2 | Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear
Hermès | Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear
Cape-tivated? Keep cool in a cape of Tulle, or bring the heat in a thick cloak of Double Face Wool.
Famous NYC Designer Black and White Polka Dot Tulle
Orange and Black Double Faced Wool Felt
Gold
Gold reigns supreme when it comes to the colors of the Gods. Whether it’s Aphrodite wrapped in linen, tied with braided gold rope and a gold circlet upon her head, or Ra, the Ancient Egyptian God of the sun, swathed in golden garb as he bestows warmth and light on the morning, Gods and Goddesses wear gold. Give your garments a Godly aura and adorn yourself in gold.
Norma Kamali | Resort 2018
Chanel | Resort 2018
Gucci | Resort 2018
Kimora Lee Simmons | Resort 2018
Going for gold? Get it here:
Calvin Klein Tinsel Silk Charmeuse
Goldenrod Preppy Print Stretch Medium-Weight Cotton
Egyptian and Greek Inspired
The most iconic of the ancients are the Egyptians and the Greeks. Ancient Greek garb was simple, often a linen or a wool-like square of fabric that was wrapped around the body, and pinned to keep it in place. Ancient Egyptians typically wore white linen, and the wealthiest and most important ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with bright jewels and stunning gems. The fashion of these ancient societies have subtly made their way into modern clothing, with gold detailing on a dress or gladiator sandals. Some collections, such as Chanel and Gucci, have fully embraced the ancient looks, dressing their models in traditional Egyptian and Greek garb, while adding a touch of modernity.
Norma Kamali | Resort 2018
Chanel | Resort 2018
Haney | Resort 2018
Ace & Jig | Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear
Gucci | Resort 2018
Inspired by the ancients? Go back in time with these fabrics:
Lighthouse Light-Weight Linen Woven
Red and Gray Striped Wool Woven
1 comment
Nice roundup. Love the Ace & Jig (although models never seem to match, much less enjoy, the clothes they are wearing, But i try to not let that negatively influence me!)