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Clothing in Egypt - From History to Present Day

Fashion and clothing in Egypt have always been an integrals part of its culture. Practicality and comfort have always been an integral part of Egyptian culture. In ancient Egypt, dressing up was a serious business, and everyone preferred wearing linen to protect themselves from the subtropical heat. Also, the use of makeup was common among men and women from the royal household. Surprisingly, they had dedicated deities for fashion and clothing including, Hedjhotep (god) and Tayt (the goddess).

The arid and dry climate, in modern times, locals still prefer wearing light fabric clothing that goes in with their religious sentiments. With time the fashion evolved, but the Egyptian style always remained a source of inspiration for designers and creators.

Weather in Egypt

Fashion represents the image of a nation's culture, geography, and weather conditions. Egypt, and the surrounding regions of the country, share a hot and arid climate. During the summer season, the temperature might soar beyond bearable during the peak summer season.

The clothing in Egypt is designed with keeping the climate in mind. While ancient Egyptians preferred linens among other fibers for clothing, in the modern time's preference for light fabrics remains intact.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Egypt


Ancient Egyptian Fashion

During ancient times, Egyptians preferred wearing light and airy fabrics like linen. These materials were comfortable in the summer and allowed them to stay cool. While the affluent families and the royals wore better quality of the linen, while the lower section wore coarser variants of the fabric. Linen procured from the locally grown flax plant was more durable and lasted a long time.

In those days, men wore a simple wrap-around skirt (shendyt) with a metallic belt at the waist. Initially, these skirts were short reaching up to the knee. But, gradually, these skirts were worn longer. Later on, a white tunic was included in the Egyptian male attire.

Women preferred to wear kalasiris – a simple sheath dress – held by straps on the shoulders. The length of the dress revealed the social status of the women – royal or high society women wore their dresses till their ankles, while lower-class women wore it shorter. The use of feathers or beading was popular among female clothing in Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians loved accessories and liberally used gold and precious stones for adorning themselves. Also, capes or shawls over the dresses were popular among women. Moreover, men and women wore wigs and hair accessories on special occasions.

In ancient Egyptian fashion, makeup and perfume were used by both men and women. They wore black kohl, and eyeshadow to enhance their eyes. Natural dyes were used to paint the lips – an ancient example of lipstick. These people preferred wearing leather sandals on special occasions.

Modern Egyptian Fashion

Clothing in Egypt
Egyptian Women With Gallibaya
Women in rural areas wear gallibaya with a headscarf called mandil, a more traditional and conservative dressing. Traditional jewelry like Jakid Necklace and earnings are popular during festivals and weddings. In urban areas ladies do wear jeans and tops, followed by a headscarf. In the coastal regions, tourists can be seen wearing western-style dresses.

Similarly, men’s clothing in Egypt varies from rural to urban areas. While men in rural areas wear ankle-length gowns called Galabiya with a scarf or traditional Islamic skull cap called a fez. Men in urban areas prefer wearing clothes in the line of western fashion.

Egyptian prefer sandals, formal shoes, and other forms of western footwear that cover their feet. Usually, Egyptian sandals are unisex and worn by women and men alike.

What Tourists Should Wear in Egypt?

After an elongated discussion on clothing in Egypt, let's talk about what travelers should wear on their trip. Since Egypt is a conservative country, travelers are recommended to wear modest attire that covers their shoulders, legs, and hands. Women can wear a headscarf while touring. Men should go for loose shorts and tees. Ideally, linen or cotton fabric dresses are recommended during the summer. But, for cooler nights, a wool or fleece sweater is ideal.

Read More: What to Pack for Egypt Tour Including Clothing List


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