Skip navigation

How to make an authentic Toga

How to wear a togaTogas are a loose garment, associated with the Roman culture. However, they have been used in different manners since ancient times. The Etruscans, from the modern-day Tuscan area, wore toga-like robes as early as 800 BC. In Rome, togas were used for generations. The significance of the toga had varied meanings in Rome, depending on the period. At times, slaves were not allowed to wear togas but togas were required by citizens of Rome to set them apart from the poor. Different styles and fabrics signified an individual’s level of importance in the community. Tight-fitting togas were used when togas were first introduced in Rome. They were worn over loincloths. Later, the togas had a looser fit. They were worn over shirts or tunics.

These days, togas are seen in books and statues from ancient Rome. Modern togas are quickly crafted out of bed sheets or yards of fabric. However, ancient togas were made from wool instead of the cotton seen today. They were also shaped into a semicircle rather than the rectangular shape associated with bed sheets. You can make your own toga with basic sewing skills and a little time.

Start by choosing your fabric. While original togas were wool, you may be cooler and more comfortable in soft cotton or cotton blends. Buy 4 yards of fabric that is as wide as you are tall. For example, if you are 5’10” you’ll need fabric that is at least 5’10” wide and 4 yards long. Cut the fabric to fit after you buy it, if necessary.
  1. Spread the fabric out on a flat surface and find the center of the length. Mark the center with a washable fabric pen.
  2. Draw an arch that starts from the center mark and slopes down to each corner on the opposite side.
  3. Cut out the arch so you have a piece of fabric with a semicircle shape. Use sharp fabric scissors.
  4. Fold the edges over and pin with straight pins. Sew along the seam to create a hem. You do not need a large hem for this project. A ¼-inch works fine.
Wear the toga by draping it over your shoulders so the left side falls to your feet in front. Bring the right side behind your back, under your right armpit and back up across your front. Wrap it around your waist. Draw it over your left shoulder. Tie it to at your shoulder and arrange the folds so it covers your body. Alternatively, used a decorative clip or pin at your shoulder to secure the toga.

You can wear a tunic, shirt, leotard, underwear, or nothing underneath the toga. Sandals work well to complete the look.   

Copyright © Sarah on NiceAnswers.com 2017

References:
Roman dress and the fabrics of Roman culture, Volume 46; Page 25;  J. C. Edmondson, Alison Keith
howtomakeatoga.info
roman-empire.net/society/soc-dress.html
how-to-make-a-toga.blogspot.com/2007/08/how-to-make-toga-part-3.html
mmdtkw.org/VRomanClothing.html
mmdtkw.org/VToga.html

Rating

Unrated
Edited