Byzantine

Byzantine 555AD (height of the empire)

Key style features:

• Perpendula
• Tablion
• Tunic (Tunica)
• Cope
• Mitre
• Foliated crown
• Stola/Chemise
• Paludamentum
• Maniakis
• Stemma
• Dalmatic (Daltmatica)
• Pallium

Images of the era:

(Figure 1)

(Figure 2)

(Figure 3)

Modern outfit inspired by the era:

(Dolce & Gabbana - Fall 13 RTW)

This outfit is from the 2013 fall ready-to-wear collection of Dolce & Gabbana, and is heavily inspired by the Byzantine era. The main feature of the outfit is the tunic, which has a number of Byzantine elements. The central piece of the tunic is the portrait in the centre of the tunic, which is instantly recognisable as being of Byzantine origin. 

The tunic itself is one of the classic pieces of the Byzantine era, which traditionally has a high neck, long sleeves and knee length hem and is loose fitting. Whilst the sleeves and hem have been raised to be more appealing to modern trends, the high neck and loose fit have remained, which still capture the essence of the Byzantine tunic design.

The tunic is decorated with elements that are synonymous with the Byzantine era too. The patterns on the tunic are of a mozaic style, which was common in the popular art of the time. A number of different bright and vibrant colours have also been used, which at the time signified the wealth of the wearer. Gem stones have also been applied to the tunic as well, another common feature of clothing and accessories of the rich of the time. 

To complete the look, the model is also wearing a crown, inspired by the foliated crown that was popular in Byzantine times. The crown is adorned with jewels, and completes the look of an important and wealthy person. The crown is finished in a pointed edge pattern, with jewels placed in the crown tips.