Definition & Meaning of "chiton"

What is a "chiton"?

A chiton was an ancient Greek garment worn by both men and women. It was a simple, rectangular piece of fabric draped over the body and fastened at the shoulders with pins or fibulae. The length of the garment varied, with shorter versions worn for athletic events, and longer versions worn for formal occasions. The chiton was made from a range of materials, from the finest linen for the wealthy to coarser wool for the less well-off. Women's chitons often had sleeves, while men's were typically sleeveless. The chiton was a versatile garment, suitable for both everyday wear and formal occasions, and it remained a staple of Greek dress for many centuries.