02-10-2009, 03:25 AM
Probably the best patterns are from Dr. Norma Goldman's article "Reconstructing Roman Clothing" in the book "the World of Roman Costume" ISBN 0-299-13854-2, referenced on the Legio XX civilian clothing website. Dr Goldman also has a video out through the Junior Classical League called "Let's Wrap" (yes, groan). Great stuff. Actual basic women's clothing is very simple to do, and very easy to overcomplicate.
Stick to 100% wool and linen.
If you can find images of Roman women from statues from Pompeii etc, you will get a pretty good idea of the drape of fabric. Gap sleaved tunica were ubiquitous on wealthy women. One statue from the current exhibit at the East Gallery in DC shows fabric that was apparently bunched up and specifically wrinkled for effect; most likely a type of wool.
Stick to 100% wool and linen.
If you can find images of Roman women from statues from Pompeii etc, you will get a pretty good idea of the drape of fabric. Gap sleaved tunica were ubiquitous on wealthy women. One statue from the current exhibit at the East Gallery in DC shows fabric that was apparently bunched up and specifically wrinkled for effect; most likely a type of wool.
Richard Campbell
Legio XX - Alexandria, Virginia
RAT member #6?
Legio XX - Alexandria, Virginia
RAT member #6?
