The Roman Empire: A Quick Look Back

At its height around 117 CE, the Roman Empire was the largest political and social structure in western civilization. It started when Augustus Caesar became the first emperor in 27 BCE and ended in the west when Romulus Augustulus was deposed in 476 CE. In the east, it continued as the Byzantine Empire until 1453 CE. Rome’s influence on the world can still be felt today in areas like law, architecture, and yes—fashion.

The Early Dynasties

After the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, Augustus Caesar transformed Rome from a republic into an empire. His reign marked the beginning of the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), a period of stability that lasted over 200 years. After Augustus, emperors like Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero ruled, each leaving their mark on Roman society. The Flavian Dynasty followed, known for monumental projects like the Colosseum.

The Five Good Emperors

Between 96 and 180 CE, Rome saw a golden age under the rule of the Five Good Emperors: Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius. The empire expanded and flourished culturally and economically. But as time went on, the empire faced challenges—political instability, economic troubles, and invasions—which led to its eventual split into the Western and Eastern Roman Empires.

The Fall of Rome

The Western Roman Empire officially ended in 476 CE, but its legacy lives on. Roman innovations in engineering, law, and fashion continue to shape our world today.

Ancient Roman Fashion

When you think of Roman fashion, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the toga. But Roman style was much more diverse, with clothing reflecting status, gender, and occasion.

Tunics

Both men and women in Ancient Rome wore tunics. For men, tunics were usually knee-length, while women wore longer versions that reached the feet. Tunics were made from wool or linen and varied in color, fabric, and style depending on one’s social class.

Togas

Only Roman men were allowed to wear togas, and they weren’t just any piece of fabric. Togas were large, structured garments that required assistance to drape properly. You had to be a Roman citizen to wear one—freedmen (former slaves) and foreigners weren’t allowed.

Types of Togas:

• Toga Virilis: Worn by young men when they came of age (14-16) and lower-ranking senators.
• Toga Praetexta: Worn by boys before coming of age and certain senators. It had a purple border.
• Toga Picta: Embroidered and worn by triumphant generals or during gladiatorial games.
• Toga Candida: A bright white toga worn by those running for public office.
• Toga Pulla: A dark-colored toga worn during mourning or imperial crises.
• Toga Trabea: Reserved for the emperor and select members of the royal family.

From the 2nd century BCE, it became illegal for Roman women to wear togas—except for prostitutes, who were often required to wear them as a form of identification.

The Color Purple

Tyrian purple was the most prized color in Roman fashion. Made from the mucous secretion of murex sea snails, it was incredibly expensive and reserved for emperors and royalty. This tradition of purple representing royalty continued for centuries and is still seen today.

Women’s Fashion: The Stola and Palla

Like Greek fashion, Roman women’s clothing was based on three main garments:

• Tunica Intima: A long or short-sleeved under-tunic worn beneath the stola.
• Stola: A long linen dress, usually with three-quarter sleeves. The stola was a symbol of a woman’s married status.
• Palla: A rectangular mantle or cloak worn over the stola. It could be wrapped and belted in different styles. Wealthier women wore pallas made of silk and adorned with embroidery.

Hairstyles

Roman women were known for their elaborate hairstyles. Hairstyles changed frequently, and it was so important to keep up with trends that some marble busts had removable hairpieces to reflect the latest styles. Headdresses and hair accessories made from gold and precious stones were common among wealthy women.

For men, hairstyles were simpler but still significant. The popular Caesar cut featured short hair with bangs brushed forward.

Footwear

Unlike the Greeks, Romans preferred shoes over sandals. These were made of leather and often had laces to keep them secure. Gladiators also wore protective footwear, with leg guards similar to those worn by modern hockey players.

Roman Fashion Today: Influence on Modern Runways

Roman fashion continues to inspire modern designers. Collections like Valentino Haute Couture Fall 2015, Dolce & Gabbana Spring/Summer 2014, and Chanel’s Cruise Collection 17/18 pay tribute to Rome’s timeless style.

From the structured toga to the elegant stola, Roman fashion proves that true style never goes out of fashion.