How to Fold an Authentic Toga

Togas folded correctly recall the beauty and grace of ancient times.

The toga is a classical article of clothing that has remained a constant for thousands of years. Whether you have a social gathering that has a toga theme or a theatrical part demanding period garb, you may need to fold your own toga. For authenticity and to ensure your toga stays on, knowing how to properly fold and wrap the toga is key. With a bit of patience, you can master the ancient folding technique.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric for toga
• Brooch or pin

Instructions

1. Hold the fabric so it is longer horizontally than vertically. Position the fabric so the right end of the fabric is in line with the right side of your body (hold it near your armpit).

2. Check the length of the fabric in relation to your height. If the fabric is touching the floor when you hold it near your armpit, fold it until it just grazes your toes. You can make the toga shorter, according to your comfort.

3. Press the right end of the fabric against your body by holding it down with your arm. Use your left arm to pass the rest of the toga around the front of your body and under your left underarm. Keep wrapping the toga until you reach the starting point along your right side.

4. Pin the fabric together after you bring the length of it around your body. The pin will be visible, so use a decorative brooch, or pin the toga from the inside to prevent it from being seen.

5. Gather the fabric past the spot where you pinned it and fold it up over your left shoulder. Allow the trailing fabric to drape down your back and toward your right hip.

6. Bring the rest of the fabric around your waist from the right side and wrap it around your body again. Repeat the over-the-shoulder fold and bring the fabric around to your front.

7. Gather the tail of the toga and drape it over your right arm. Adjust the fabric so it rests on your arm and cascades toward the floor. You can pull at various parts of the folds to create more or less volume in a specific area.

Tips & Warnings

• If your fabric is too short to wrap twice, skip the second wrapping and proceed with the arm draping.

• Do not wear a toga without anything underneath -- Romans always wore a tunic under their toga.

References

• Party Oz: How to Tie a Toga
• UNRV: Ancient Roman Clothing
• Fashion Era: How to Make a Roman Toga & Tunic