Latin Fashion – Then and Now
In ancient times, children in Latin-speaking areas dressed very similarly to adults. Their clothes were just smaller versions of grown-up outfits. These clothes changed depending on the region and time period, but they always had meaning and purpose—sometimes even magical protection!
Clothing for Boys and Girls
Boys wore tunics made of wool or linen. On a boy’s 16th or 17th birthday, he would wear a special white tunic to mark his “coming of age.” This meant he was now considered a citizen, and the celebration would end with a dinner party hosted by his father.
Girls wore long tunics or togas that reached the ground. When girls went outdoors, they often dressed formally, especially for ceremonies or special occasions. If a woman was married, she wore an extra garment called a stola over her tunic, held together with a belt and a large decorative brooch.
The Meaning of the Bulla
Both boys and girls wore a special necklace called a bulla. Inside the bulla was a tiny charm that was believed to protect children from evil spirits and jealousy. Girls wore their bulla until their wedding day. Boys wore it until their citizenship ceremony—but if they later became famous or honored, they might wear it again in a special parade.
Roman Fashion and Hairstyles
The toga was the most formal clothing for boys and men. It was first worn by itself, then later draped over a tunic. Over time, the toga became more decorative and colorful. Kings, soldiers, and even chariot racers wore different colors and designs.
Capes and cloaks were added depending on the weather. Shoes and sandals were made from leather or wood and were worn by everyone. Jewelry was also common, especially for women and wealthy families.
Women dyed their hair in colors like gold, black, or red. Some even wore wigs! Hair was curled using hot tools, and shiny oils were used to make it soft. Make-up was made from chalk, wine, and ash. Fans made from peacock feathers and parasols helped keep ladies cool on hot days.
What About Today?
Today, fashion in Italy and other places where Latin used to be spoken looks a lot like fashion in the rest of Europe or North America. Kids wear jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and cozy coats—no togas required!
Learn More About Ancient Latin Life with Dinolingo
Curious about how kids lived in ancient Latin times? Dinolingo brings history and language learning together in fun ways! Children aged 2 to 14 can explore Latin through songs, animations, and interactive lessons. With over 50 languages available on web, iOS, and Android, Dinolingo helps young learners connect with history while learning a new language at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
Latin fashion tells us a lot about what people believed and how they lived. From the bulla to the stola, every item had a purpose. Learning about ancient clothes is a fun way to imagine what life was like many years ago!
