himation

The himation is an ancient Greek garment that functioned as a rectangular outer cloak worn over a chiton or peplos. It was typically made from wool or linen and served as a flexible covering for warmth, modesty, and social signaling. The word himation refers to the wrap itself and is distinct from the lighter rectangular peplos or the sewn chiton.

Construction and materials: A himation consists of a single piece of cloth, usually several meters long and wide enough to wrap around the body. Its length allowed various draping styles, and its material could be wool for cooler climates or linen in warmer regions. Color and pattern varied by region, season, and status, with plain or modest tones common in everyday use and more elaborate or bordered versions appearing in particular contexts.

Wearing and draping: There are several ways to wear a himation. A common arrangement is to drape the cloth over the left shoulder and wrap it around the body, leaving the right arm free. Another style involves wrapping the cloth around the torso and across the chest, with one end brought over the opposite shoulder. The garment could be worn over a chiton or peplos and also used as a head covering or blanket when needed. The draping allowed adjustments for temperature, movement, and social setting.

Historical role and contexts: The himation was widely used in archaic, classical, and Hellenistic Greece, by both men and women, though draping conventions varied by era and region. In art and literature, it is depicted as a versatile, everyday wrap as well as a symbol of status in some contexts. The garment gradually declined in daily use with changing fashion in late antiquity, but its image persists in classical studies and reconstructions of ancient dress.