Tuniche

Tuniche, or tunics, are loose-fitting garments that cover the upper body and typically reach from the shoulders to the hips or knees. They are usually simple in construction, without a defined waist seam, and may have sleeves or be sleeveless. The term derives from the Latin tunica, with cognates in many European languages.

In antiquity, the tunic functioned as a basic garment in Greek and Roman dress. The Roman tunica was worn by both men and women; men's tunics were often knee-length or longer and belted, while women's could be longer and more decorative. Tunics were commonly made of linen or wool and varied in color and trim according to status and role. During the medieval period, the tunic evolved into an outer garment for many as it was worn over an undergarment such as a chemise, and was often paired with belts, cloaks, cote, or surcoats. Fabrics ranged from plain to richly embroidered, reflecting regional styles and social distinctions.

Globally, tunic-like silhouettes recur in diverse textile traditions. The Indian kurta, the Persian tunik, and the North African kaftan share the basic straight-cut form and often employ a belt or sash. Variants differ in sleeve length, neckline, and ornamentation, shaped by climate and local craft.

In modern fashion, tunics are worn as long tops that reach mid-thigh or knee, paired with leggings, jeans, or trousers. They appear across casual, bohemian, and modest-dress contexts and are produced in a broad range of fabrics, necklines, and sleeve configurations to suit contemporary styling while preserving the garment’s simple, versatile silhouette.