Fashion in the Early Dynastic Period

Published: July 28, 2026 · Updated: July 28, 2026

In the Early Dynastic Period the linen kilt and sheath dress became established and royal dress — the shendyt and the crowns — began to take shape, recorded on early reliefs such as the Narmer Palette.

Fashion in the Early Dynastic Period — Author: Narmer Palette (Early Dynastic, c. 3100 BC) Public domain Source

Overview

With the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt, dress began to carry a system that marked kingship and rank.

Key garments and style

Men wore the shendyt kilt wrapped at the waist and women a close sheath dress with shoulder straps. The king wore crowns such as the White and Red crowns and a ceremonial false beard, and dress became a symbol of rule.

Transition

In the Old Kingdom this dress developed into the refined style of the pyramid age.

History of this period

Early Dynastic Period c. 3100–c. 2686 BC