Clothing in ancient Greece | Wikipedia audio article
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Date: 2018-11-27

This is an audio version of the Wikipedia Article:
Clothing in ancient Greece

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SUMMARY
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Clothing in ancient Greece primarily consisted of the chiton, peplos, himation, and chlamys. Ancient Greek men and women typically wore two pieces of clothing draped about the body: an undergarment (chiton or peplos) and a cloak (himation or chlamys). Ancient Greek clothing was mainly based on necessity, function, materials, and protection rather than identity. Thus, clothes were quite simple, draped, loose-fitting and free flowing. Customarily, clothing was homemade and cut to various lengths of rectangular linen or wool fabric with minimal cutting or sewing, and secured with ornamental clasps or pins, and a belt, or girdle (zone). Pieces were generally interchangeable between men and women. However, women usually wore their robes to their ankles while men generally wore theirs to their knees depending on the occasion and circumstance.
While no clothes have survived from this period, descriptions exist in contemporary accounts and artistic depictions. Clothes were mainly homemade and locally made since trade with other cultures hadn't occurred yet. Additionally, clothing often served many purposes (such as bedding). All ancient Greek clothing was made out of natural fibers. Linen was the most common fabric due to the hot climate which lasted most of the year. On the rare occasion of colder weather, ancient Greeks wore wool. Common clothing of the time was plain white, or neutral colored, sometimes incorporating decorative borders. There is evidence of elaborate design and bright colors, but these were less common among lower class citizens. However, noble citizens wore bright colors to express their wealth as dyed clothing was more expensive. The clothing for both men and women generally consisted of two main parts: a tunic and a cloak. 
The Greeks had a great appreciation for the human body, and it was shown in their fashion. The fabric was expertly draped around the body, and the cloth could be slightly transparent. Males had no problem with nudity, while women could only be naked in the public bath.
The Greeks also influence modern fashion quite frequently, especially in todays globalized world. Modern big name brands such as Zuhair Murad, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Chanel, and Versace have taken elements from Greek clothing for their ready-to-wear and couture collections today. Most notably, Gianni Versace famously used Ancient Greek inspiration and motifs in his collection. In fact, his entire branding is based on Greek culture. The logo for Versace is of the Ancient Greek monster Medusa's head encircled in the traditional meander pattern symbolizing eternity. Dolce and Gabbana also did a collection inspired by Greek temples and ruins. Additionally, the notorious fashion house Chanel devoted their entire Resort 2018 collection to ancient Greece with references to ancient clothing, gods/goddesses, architecture and culture. In addition to using Greek silhouettes and clothing styles, Chanel staged the show in ancient Greek ruins, providing a theatric and refined experience for their audience. Chanel’s creative director Karl Lagerfeld is quoted by Vogue editor Luke Leitch, “The criteria of beauty in Ancient then Classical Greece still holds true. There have never been more beautiful representations of women. Or more beautiful column. The entire Renaissance, in fact, was based on antiquity." Unmistakably, the designer has an adoration for ancient Greek culture as he implements it in his personal designs and style. It is quite evident that, the drapery, architecture, and mythology from ancient Greece had a great influence on fashion since then, and still today.