Iruni Kalupahana JadeTimes Staff
I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion
Embracing Egyptian and Greek Influences
Cleopatra’s unique style was a harmonious blend of Egyptian and Greek aesthetics, reflecting both her heritage and her role as a diplomat and cultural icon. As Queen of Egypt, she frequently wore traditional Egyptian garments like kalasiris, a long, close fitting dress made of linen, which was often layered with transparent, pleated fabrics that emphasized her royal bearing. Egyptian attire highlighted comfort and elegance, with designs suited for the hot climate, allowing freedom of movement.
Cleopatra’s Greek heritage was also visible in her fashion, she adopted the Greek chiton and peplos, which featured flowing, draped fabrics and asymmetrical cuts. Her one shoulder gowns, often pinned with ornate brooches, echoed the clothing of Greek deities, enhancing her ethereal and commanding presence.
Power and Symbolism in Accessories
Accessories held immense symbolic value in Cleopatra’s wardrobe, serving not only as adornments but as powerful symbols of her royal status and divine right. Cleopatra’s jewelry was crafted from the finest materials, including gold, lapis lazuli, and other gemstones sourced from Egypt’s abundant resources. The cobra, or uraeus, featured on her headdress, symbolized protection and royalty, and was closely associated with the goddess Wadjet, the protector of the Pharaoh.
She often wore elaborate pectoral necklaces, broad collars, and arm cuffs depicting Egyptian gods, each accessory designed to reinforce her status as both a leader and a deity in the eyes of her people. Cleopatra’s headdresses often featured feathers, horns, and sun disks, which linked her to powerful Egyptian goddesses like Isis, underscoring her influence and her role as a symbol of divine authority.
The Art of Makeup
Cleopatra’s makeup routine was both an art and a strategic tool that reflected her understanding of beauty and mystique. Her use of kohl to create bold, almond shaped eyes became iconic, this dark eyeliner, made from ground galena (a lead based mineral), not only defined her gaze but also protected her eyes from infections and the intense desert sun.
Cleopatra’s use of natural ingredients extended to crushed gemstones like malachite (a green mineral) and galena, which she applied as vibrant eyeshadows. She also used red ochre for lip color, which gave her a striking appearance. For Cleopatra, makeup was more than an adornment it was a statement of power, beauty, and health. Her dedication to beauty rituals also conveyed a sense of control over her image, helping to build her reputation as a captivating and almost mythical figure.
Renaissance Revival and Modern Influence
Cleopatra’s fashion influence reached new heights during the Renaissance, a period that saw a resurgence in interest in classical antiquity. Renaissance artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli often depicted women in attire inspired by ancient Egyptian and Greek styles, leading to a wave of fashion trends that mirrored Cleopatra’s own looks. This fascination with Cleopatra extended into the decorative arts and literature, where stories of her beauty and intellect captivated the European elite.
In modern times, fashion designers such as Christian Dior and Versace have drawn inspiration from Cleopatra’s style, incorporating draped fabrics, metallic accents, and intricate jewelry into their collections. From Hollywood films to couture collections, Cleopatra’s influence continues to shape the aesthetics of fashion, as designers reinterpret her look in high fashion, costume design, and even casual wear.
Lasting Legacy in Jewelry and Makeup Trends
Cleopatra’s taste for luxurious, statement jewelry has created a lasting trend, inspiring designs that echo her love for bold and meaningful adornments. Contemporary designers continue to emulate her style with pieces that incorporate Egyptian symbolism, including scarabs, lotus flowers, and hieroglyphics. Her iconic eye makeup particularly the dramatic cat eye look has become a beauty classic, with millions around the world replicating it for its allure and sophistication.
Cleopatra’s emphasis on beauty and cosmetics has had a broad influence, inspiring cosmetic companies to launch products based on ancient Egyptian techniques and ingredients. Makeup brands offer products like kohl eyeliner and shimmery eyeshadows reminiscent of her style, while jewelry brands embrace vibrant, gemstone adorned pieces that evoke Cleopatra’s love for color and luxury. Her enduring legacy in beauty and fashion highlights her influence as a timeless icon, reminding us that her style was as powerful and captivating as her reign.
