Persia was a rich empire that traded with all of the ancient powerhouses of the age. The clothing of the citizens reflected this in the garments and accessories. Gold from Egypt, Silk from China, and dyes from all over the ancient world the garments of the Persia Empire were the envy of many.1

Laws in Persia required women wear full body clothing.2 Veils were introduced during this empire which would in the future develop into the head coverings of the Muslim Empire. While these laws seem oppressive the women of Ancient Persia had more rights than many of their contemporaries including the right to own and work in several types of businesses and fight alongside the male citizens.3 The type of clothing a woman worn signaled her purity to all those who saw her.2

Loose fitting ankle length kaftans were worn with belts or metal embellishments to give some shape.2 Over these garments long vests were worn to add an additional layer of protection in veiling the body from others.1 The garments were often embellished with coloured stones, metal threads, and elaborate embroidery.

1. Persian Empress, (Ret. 2024), Ancient Persia Clothing Dressing Costumes, https://persianempires.com/ancient-persia-clothing-dressing-costumes.html
2. Joe, J., (2022), Ancient Persian Clothing: A Story of Bright Colours and Ornaments, Timeless Myth, https://www.timelessmyths.com/history/ancient-persian-clothing/#Persian_Women_Clothing
3. Mark, J.J., (2020, January, 30), Women in Ancient Persia, World History, https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1492/women-in-ancient-persia/