by Virginia Gaces

Created on: October 05, 2008   Last Updated: December 09, 2008

The Egyptian influence in fashion has been around us quite predominantly but sometimes we fail to notice this, because it has been modified and enhanced to suit the modern woman/man.

The following are exotic, Egyptian fashion influences that are found today:

The "kalasiris"

This is a very simple but elegantly designed tunic which was worn by both genders during the olden times in Egypt.

The length of the linen (from flax) started from the snug neck and extended easily to the ankles, which facilitated easy movements. The length of the sheath clothing was dependent upon the height of the person.

It acted primarily as a protective covering for workers, but was eventually adapted by the royal families as well, because of its simplicity and elegance.

Today, the Egyptian influence is still enormous. Paul Poiret, "The King of Fashion," just last August 2007 had included the Egyptian elements and influence in his collections because he wanted to combine various cultures into outfits that could be available across the world.

Beaded dresses

This was similar to the "kalasiris" because it was sleeveless and a one-piece tunic which reached down to the ankle.

Most of the time, beads were found intricately imbedded on the neck portion.

In today's style, we see these one piece dresses worn by models in famous fashion shows. This is because; in this outfit, models can flaunt their sensuous curves and look elegant at the same time. We do not realize that this is an Egyptian inspired design

The headdress

The headdress was usually worn by those in authority in Egypt. There were several types based on the different deities of Ancient Egypt. There was the Amen (adorned by plumes), Amentet (adorned by a half circle), Anget (adorned by feathers from the ostrich), and many more headdresses that symbolized their various gods.

The different shapes and adornments by each headdress deserve a fashion show of its own.

In present fashion shows, we often see beautiful headdresses worn by models. Even in beauty pageants, a headdress is usually a hit.

Kilts

The lower clothing of men and women usually were kilts. These were simple wraps which were pleated and folded towards the front and tied with a string or held in place using a belt.

This was a loincloth which was meant to protect the skin and body from the heat of the sun in hot days and from the wind in cold days.

We see kilts everywhere we go in the present time.

Cloaks/Robes/shawls

Cloaks were worn by men of the royal family. Sometimes the female had worn

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