Overview
A dalmatica is a long tunic cut in a cross shape with wide, sometimes full-length sleeves, slipped over the head and worn loose or belted. Two coloured or golden stripes (clavi) run from each shoulder to the hem, and further bands mark cuffs and edges.
How it is worn
It is put on over an inner tunic and worn straight or gathered with a belt, the wide sleeves and long body giving a solemn, columnar line. Its rich silk, embroidery, and jewelled trim signalled Byzantine rank, and it clothed emperors and saints alike in mosaic.
History
The dalmatica came from Dalmatia into Roman use by the second century and became the principal robe of Byzantine dress. Adopted by the Church as a liturgical vestment, it survives to this day as the dalmatic worn by deacons.