How to Make a Greek Toga
Fans of the classic 1978 film "Animal House" usually think of only one thing whenever they hear or see the word "toga"---actor John Belushi revving up his fraternity brothers by chanting "toGA! toGA! toGA!" This movie firmly and definitely made the simple garment the must-wear accessory for the serious party-goer. While ancient Romans are more commonly associated with togas, they borrowed the idea from the ancient Greeks. Whether you're a Roman recreationist, a big fan of Julius Caesar or just like to attend fraternity parties on a regular basis, a toga is a quick and useful addition to your costume collection. If you can, find someone to help you drape your toga.
Things You'll Need
- White fabric
- Safety pins
- Sewing machine (optional)
- Scissors
- Pins
- Thread
- White duct tape (optional)
Instructions
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Acquire a lot of white fabric. A proper toga takes about 6 yards of fabric. If you're broke or in a hurry, get two white single bed sheets, attach the short ends together either by sewing or by using a white duct tape, and fold in half lengthways. Or, buy 12 yards of white fabric, cut it into two 6-yard pieces, and sew the long edges together.
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Wear something under your toga. Whether it's jeans, shorts and/or an extra-long T-shirt, make sure you have some clothing that will cover your embarrassing bits if the toga decides---against all precautions---to fall off.
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Drape your toga. Start with one corner of your folded fabric near the front of your left ankle. Have your assistant drape the fabric up to your left shoulder, down to your right hip, and then across your front to your left shoulder again. Your left arm will hold the "drape" and your right arm will basically be bare.
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Pin the toga in place. Although the ancient Romans generally didn't pin their togas, you and your assistant may want to pin yours in place (like to the underclothes previously mentioned), especially if dancing is in your immediate future.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose fabric that drapes nicely and won't slide around too much. A cotton or cotton blend will work, and will also be cool enough that you don't overheat. Want to add a touch of royalty to your toga? Add a 5-inch wide purple stripe to the edges of your fabric.
