How Did Hermes Dress?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and sports, was a popular figure in Greek mythology. Known for his quick wit and cunning nature, he was often depicted as a young man with winged sandals and a winged hat.

However, what did Hermes wear beyond these iconic accessories? Let’s take a closer look at how Hermes dressed.

Clothing

Hermes was typically depicted wearing a short tunic known as a chiton. This garment was made from lightweight fabric such as linen or wool and reached down to his knees. The chiton had short sleeves that left the arms bare to allow for ease of movement while also keeping the body cool in warm weather.

To cinch his waist and add definition to his figure, Hermes wore a belt or girdle known as a zoster. This accessory was often embellished with decorative elements like ribbons or tassels.

Footwear

As mentioned earlier, Hermes is best known for his winged sandals which allowed him to fly at great speeds. These sandals were made from leather and featured small wings attached to the ankles. In addition to being functional, they were also fashionable and complemented his overall look.

Headwear

To complete his look, Hermes wore a wide-brimmed hat known as a petasus. This hat had wings attached to the sides which matched those on his sandals. It provided shade from the sun while also adding an element of grandeur to his appearance.

Accessories

In addition to his zoster belt and petasus hat, Hermes carried a variety of accessories that were both functional and stylish. He often had a pouch or bag known as a kibisis slung over one shoulder which contained various items such as money or messages.

Another important accessory was the herald’s wand, known as a caduceus. This staff was decorated with two serpents intertwined and topped with a pair of wings. It symbolized Hermes’ role as a messenger and was often used to calm disputes or guide souls to the underworld.

Conclusion

In summary, Hermes was known for his iconic winged sandals and hat, but his overall attire was equally important in creating his distinctive look. He typically wore a chiton tunic, zoster belt, and carried various accessories like the kibisis pouch and the caduceus staff. With this ensemble, he embodied the qualities of speed, cunning, and commerce that were associated with his mythological persona.