How to Make a Chiton Dress

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Flat white sheet

  • 3 safety pins or brooches

  • Waist sash, rope or belt

The chiton -- like the toga -- is familiar to many.

A chiton, constructed from a rectangular piece of fabric, is a type of ancient Greek clothing worn in antiquity by both men and women. The chiton was wrapped over and around the body and held in place by shoulder pins and a waist sash or belt. Men wore the chiton knee-length; women always wore an ankle-length chiton. Today, the chiton is a popular and easy item to create and wear for a costume party. This no-sew method for making a chiton dress is quick and relatively simple.

Advertisement

Step 1

Fold your sheet in half lengthwise. Fold in half again. One vertical fold runs the length of your body. The other side of the chiton is open.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Place two pins or brooches at two points on the top edge of the folded sheet, creating a neck hole.

Step 3

Place your third pin or brooch at the one open corner to create the second armhole. The first armhole is created by the vertical fold in the sheet.

Step 4

Slip the chiton over your head and place your arms through the arm holes.

Advertisement

Step 5

Adjust the fabric folds to cover your body at the one open side. Wrap and tie a sash, belt or rope around your waist. Pull the excess fabric up under your belt.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references & resources