---
node: fashion_first_intermediate
type: fashion
slug: first_intermediate_period_fashion
title: "Fashion in the First Intermediate Period"
lead: "In the First Intermediate Period central kingship fragmented, but the basic linen kilt and sheath dress were carried on across the regions, in a somewhat simpler, provincial style."
published: 2026-07-28
updated: 2026-07-28
change: "Created as a fashion sub-page under the history section (egypt region)"
requester: internal
reason: "Per the owner's decision, fashion lives under each history era"
---

## Overview

With kingship divided among the provinces, dress kept the Old Kingdom pattern while taking on the character of local workshops.

## Key garments and style

The men's shendyt and women's sheath dress were still made of linen, but courtly refinement faded and provincial tomb paintings show a plainer treatment; jewellery continued to mark rank.

## Transition

When the Middle Kingdom restored unity, dress recovered its refinement.