As an expert in cultural anthropology, I have a deep understanding of the various aspects of human culture, including clothing styles and their evolution over time. Clothing is not only a means of protection from the elements but also a form of cultural expression and identity. The clothing worn in Egypt has a rich history that has evolved over thousands of years, reflecting the country's unique geography, climate, and cultural influences. Step 1: English Answer Ancient Egyptian Clothing The attire of ancient Egyptians was primarily designed to protect them from the intense dry heat of the desert. The clothing was light, loose-fitting, and made from natural fibers such as linen, which allowed for breathability and comfort. Men's Clothing: - Loincloth or Short Kilt: The basic garment for men was a loincloth, known as a "shendyt," which was a piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and between the legs. For more formal occasions, men wore a short kilt, or "kilt," which was a longer piece of linen that was wrapped around the waist and between the legs, then tied at the side. - Shirts: Some men, particularly those of higher social status, wore a type of shirt or tunic. These were made from linen and were either sleeveless or had short sleeves. The shirts were often pleated or had a V-neck design. Women's Clothing: - Dresses: Women typically wore straight, form-fitting dresses called "kalasiris." These dresses were made from a single piece of linen that was wrapped around the body and secured at the shoulder with one or two straps. The kalasiris were often pleated and could be ankle-length or longer, with the length and style indicating the wearer's social status. - Shoulder Straps: The shoulder straps were sometimes adorned with beads or other decorations. The dresses were typically white, but they could also be dyed in various colors using natural dyes. Make-up and Jewellery Ancient Egyptians had a unique relationship with make-up and jewellery, which served both practical and symbolic purposes. - Make-up: The use of make-up was widespread among both men and women. It was believed to have protective properties against the sun's harmful rays. For instance, kohl, a black powder made from galena, was used around the eyes to reduce glare and protect against eye infections. Make-up was also used for aesthetic reasons, with different colors and styles indicating different social statuses or roles within society. - Jewellery: Jewellery was an important aspect of Egyptian attire, often made from gold, silver, precious stones, and glass. It was used to denote wealth, social status, and religious beliefs. Necklaces, bracelets, and rings were common, with designs often inspired by nature, such as lotus flowers or animals like the scarab beetle, which symbolized rebirth and protection. Modern Egyptian Clothing In modern times, Egyptian clothing has been influenced by both traditional and Western styles. - Traditional Attire: Traditional clothing, such as the "galabeya" for men and women, is still worn during special occasions or in rural areas. The galabeya is a long, loose-fitting garment that can be worn as a dress or a robe and is often made from cotton. - Western Influence: Many Egyptians wear Western-style clothing, such as jeans, t-shirts, and business attire. However, even in these cases, traditional elements may be incorporated, such as the use of traditional fabrics or the addition of a "tarboosh" (a type of hat) for men. Cultural and Religious Influences Religion plays a significant role in the clothing choices of many Egyptians. - Muslim Attire: For example, many Muslim women wear the "hijab," a headscarf that covers the hair, as a sign of modesty and religious observance. Some may also wear the "abaya," a loose-fitting, full-length cloak, and the "niqab," a veil that covers the face. - Christian Attire: Coptic Christians may wear traditional white "galabeyas" during religious ceremonies, and clergy may wear distinctive robes and head coverings. Conclusion Egyptian clothing, both ancient and modern, is a fascinating reflection of the country's rich history, cultural diversity, and religious beliefs. From the practical linen garments of the ancient pharaohs to the blend of traditional and Western styles seen today, clothing in Egypt tells a story of a people deeply connected to their past and their present. **read more >>

When they were six years old they began to wear clothes that would protect them from the intense dry heat. Men of the working classes wore a loincloth or short kilt and sometimes a type of shirt. Women wore straight dresses with one or two shoulder straps. Why did the Ancient Egyptians wear make-up and jewellery?read more >>