Very simple tunic like dress worn with fabric draped and pinned at the shoulders, belted at the waist
Description:
Women of all classes would have worn the basic tunic dress but women of higher classes would add an additional layer of the stola pinned over the tunic. In the example here, the white fabric is the tunic and the purple is the stola. This would have been in addition to a Palla or long wrap that could be draped in a number of ways.
In addition there are many options for jewelry and footwear that works for roman garb. There are even modern costume jewelry and modern sandals that can be found that stylistically work for roman accessories.
Beware of information about making “togas” for the college toga parties.
Inspiration Images
Common Materials
Fabrics:
Most lower class garments in roman times were wool, but finding the right weights and weaves of wool now is hard.
Upper classes would have some silks.
Ornamentation:
Effective Substitutions
Fabrics:
Avoid polyester, polyester blends.
Cottons can work.
Linens are good.
Very light and fine wools may be very accurate, but harder to find.
Ornamentation:
Ensemble Components
Chiton
Palla
belt
sandals
jewelry
Stola
Accessories
“Roman” sandals are still sold today and work for starter garb.
Belts can range from ropes to modern fashion chain belts.
Many examples of roman jewelry are not complex and can be made easily. There are some styles that look very similar to modern costume jewelry.
SCA Iowa Garb Guide 