Fashion History

Topic 1: Ancient Egyptian Fabrics, Accessories, and Primary Sources

One reason Egyptian fabrics lacked color was because the Egyptians didn’t have the proper tools or knowledge of how to dye linen. “Linen is difficult to dye to colors that will not fade unless substances called mordants are used to fix color. Egyptian dyers were apparently unfamiliar with mordants…” (Tortora & Eubank. 33) Another reason was since they lived in the desert in a dry and hot climate light colored and thin clothing, like linen would be suitable for that type of weather. “Egypt’s climate was very warm and Egyptian dress provided the perfect complement to this warm weather. Both men and women tended to dress lightly.” (Fashioncyclopedia.com. 1)

The accessories that Ancient Egyptians used to add color to their appearance were jewelry, headdresses, and make-up. The jewelry the Egyptians wore was gold or semi-precious or precious stone and consisted of tight-fitted necklaces, armlets, earrings, and anklets. The more wealthy Egyptians wore elaborate gold jewelry. “From archeological evidence it appears that some royal women apparently wore elaborate gold jewelry. An excavation unearthed a beautiful gold and jeweled crown made with delicate leaves and flowers and massive gold necklaces and earrings.” (Tortora & Eubank. 25) But jewelry wasn’t just for the wealthy; everyone wore jewelry. The less wealthy Egyptians would wear jewelry made from copper and shells. “Egyptians believed the shell to be protection from the evil eye.” (Axelrod. 1)

“They would also use semiprecious and precious stones such as carnelian, lapis lazuli, feldspar, and turquoise and work them into large multi-colored pendants for earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and head ornaments.” (Tortora & Eubank. 25) Headdresses were also used to add color to Egyptians appearance and they were also used to identify status. The red crown was worn by the Pharaoh to symbolize control over Lower Egypt, the blue...