Personal Care: 

The dress of the ancient Egyptians consisted of plain garments. White linen was the most common. However, wool was frequently used. Colored or patterned cloth was rarely ever used. Clothing was "draped" around the body to keep sewing at a minimum. To "dress" things up a bit the ancients would wear elaborate costume jewelry. Both men and women wore jewelry such as earrings, bracelets, anklets, rings, and beaded necklaces. Into their jewelry they would incorporate many minerals including amethyst, garnet, jasper, onyx, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. Copper, gold, and shells were also used. Because the Egyptians were very superstitious, their jewelry frequently contained amulets.

Before the New Kingdom, men wore a "kilt," which fell to the knee. It was made from a rectangular piece of linen which was wrapped around the body and tied or fastened at the waist. Women wore simple sheath dresses falling from the chest to the ankle.

In the New Kingdom, men wore a short underkilt. Over it was hung a long, pleated skirt that was knotted at the hips with a sash. Men also wore a short, wide cape that covered the upper part of the body and hung from the shoulders. Women's dress had become more elegant. The sheath dress was still worn as an undergarment. However, a pleated fringed robe was added and worn on top.

Egyptians spent much of their time barefoot. Although, both men and women would wear sandals made from papyrus, palm leaves, or leather fastened by leather thongs. Sandals were always removed in the presence of a superior.

A wig or hairpiece attached to the natural hair was an essential part of the Egyptian attire. Because of the intense heat, many Egyptians shaved their heads or kept their hair very short.

Cosmetics were an important part of Egyptian dress in addition to personal hygiene and health. Oils and creams were important protection against the hot Egyptian sun and arid climate. Most characteristic of Egyptian cosmetics was their eye paint. Primarily green and black, the green pigment was made from malachite. (An oxide of copper). The black pigment was called kohl. (A lead sulfate). In the late Middle and New Kingdoms, soot was used.

To color their cheeks and lips, the Egyptians used a mixture of red ocher. Henna, a reddish-brown dye, was used to color their hair. Scents and perfumes were also used.

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