Men in ancient Greece typically wore a chiton, but often a shorter version than women. Let's explore the details of ancient Greek men's attire.
The Primary Garment: The Chiton
The chiton was the fundamental garment for both men and women in ancient Greece. For men, however, the chiton was typically knee-length or shorter, providing greater freedom of movement. The chiton was a simple tunic, usually made of linen or wool, draped and fastened at the shoulders.
Variations of the Chiton
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The Knee-Length Chiton: The most common length for men, allowing for easier physical activity.
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The Exomis: As the reference notes, the exomis was a specific type of short chiton. It was fastened only on the left shoulder, leaving the right arm bare. This made it particularly suitable for:
- Exercise
- Horse riding
- Hard labor
Summary Table: Ancient Greek Men's Clothing
| Garment | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Chiton | Simple tunic, usually knee-length or shorter | Everyday wear |
| Exomis | Short chiton fastened on the left shoulder | Exercise, horse riding, hard labor |
In essence, ancient Greek men favored practical and comfortable clothing that allowed them to participate in various activities, adapting the length and style of their chiton accordingly.
