Egyptomania: a timeless obsession
In the world of fashion, trends come and go with the seasons. However, one fascination has transcended time, consistently making its mark on runways, red carpets, and wardrobes around the world: Egyptomania. This enduring obsession with all things Egyptian has left a lasting imprint on the fashion industry, and it's a testament to the enduring allure of this ancient civilization.
Egyptomania first emerged in the Western world during the early 19th century, fueled by the fascination with the discoveries of Egyptian artifacts and hieroglyphics. From the disturbing mummy wrapping parties of the Victorian Era to uncovering the practices and rituals of ancient Egyptian empires, ancient Egypt has captivated scientists, artists, designers, and the general public since its ancient artifacts began to spread worldwide.
This infatuation quickly seeped into the realm of fashion, with designers drawing inspiration from ancient Egypt’s mystical and ornate aesthetics. Cleopatra's iconic kohl-lined eyes, pharaoh headdresses, ancient paint colors, scarabs, and hieroglyphic motifs began appearing in clothing and accessories, creating a trend that has permeated the fashion industry since its discovery.
Left: Cartier brooch, 1924; Right: fabric from 1923
One of the most iconic representations of Egyptomania in fashion was the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. The treasure trove of artifacts in the tomb, including elaborate jewelry and golden masks, sparked a renewed interest in Egyptian aesthetics. This moment, coupled with the influence of Art Deco, a prominent design style of the era, embraced Egyptian artifacts’ geometric shapes and exotic motifs, influencing fashion, jewelry, and architecture.
Above: Example of 1920s fashion influenced by Ancient Egypt
The 1960s brought another wave of Egyptomania, with Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of Cleopatra in the 1963 film Cleopatra inspired designers and consumers with her extravagant costumes, jewelry, and dramatic makeup. With 65 costume changes and a costume budget of $194,800, Taylor’s outfits won the film an Oscar for Best Costume Design and became an iconic fashion reference for consumers everywhere.
Left: Elizabeth Taylor’s Gold Cleopatra Dress, Right: Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic blue eyeshadow
In recent years, Egyptomania has experienced a resurgence in the fashion world. High-end designers like Chanel, Givenchy, and Valentino have resumed incorporating Egyptian motifs into their collections, and celebrities have embraced this trend on the red carpet. Accessories adorned with scarab beetles, ankh symbols, and intricate beading continue to add a touch of mystique to clothing while paying homage to one of the oldest cultures in the world.
Left: Chanel Métiers d'Art Collection, 2018, Middle: Givenchy Fall 2016 Collection, Right: Valentino Spring 2014 Collection
Egyptomania is not just a passing trend; it's a testament to the timeless appeal of Egypt's rich history and culture. As fashion continues to evolve, we can be sure that the allure of the Nile, the pyramids, and the pharaohs will continue to captivate designers, inspiring them to weave the magic of Egypt into their creations, ensuring that Egypt’s influence will remain a force in the fashion world for generations to come.
