---
node: fashion_ptolemaic
type: fashion
slug: ptolemaic_egypt_fashion
title: "Fashion in Ptolemaic Egypt"
lead: "Ptolemaic Egypt produced a dual world of dress: Greek chiton and himation for the Greek ruling class, and still the traditional linen of the Egyptian people."
published: 2026-07-28
updated: 2026-07-28
image_file: ptolemaic_egypt_fashion.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dendera._Hathortempel_Exterieur_Reli%C3%ABf_op_de_zuidelijke_fa%C3%A7ade_met_centraal_offersc%C3%A8ne_van_Caesarion_en_Cleopatra_VII_Philopator_aan_de_enneade_van_Dendera,_GDE001186.jpg"
image_author: "Dendera Temple relief — Cleopatra VII and Caesarion"
image_license: "Public domain"
change: "Created as a fashion sub-page under the history section, with a period image (egypt region)"
requester: internal
reason: "Per the owner's decision, fashion lives under each history era"
---

## Overview

Centred on Alexandria, Greek and Egyptian cultures met, and dress too kept two coexisting worlds.

## Key garments and style

The Macedonian royalty and elite wore the Greek chiton and himation. Cleopatra was shown both as a Greek queen and in the dress of an Egyptian goddess and pharaoh, while the Egyptian people kept the traditional linen kilt and sheath dress.

## Transition

When Rome annexed Egypt, dress moved into the world of Roman clothing and the Fayum portraits.