Habit of a Lady of the Island of Chio in 1700

by Thomas Jefferys

This engraving by Thomas Jefferys gives one a glimpse of the unique style of fashion among the Aegean islands. Specifically, we see the "Habit of a Lady of the Island of Chio," otherwise known as modern Chios, who exhibits a unique combination of Byzantine heritage and Eastern Mediterranean style.

In this beautiful engraving, the architecturally-inspired dress design of the mid-18th century Aegean fashion can be seen. The "Habit of a Lady of Chio" shows the elaborate silhouettes and layering found in their fashion, especially noted by the unique use of the short pleated skirt in an area where Western European ladies wore gowns that covered their feet.

In this illustration, the lady wears an elaborate dress composed of a bodice and high waist apron. She also wears a headpiece of linens and silks to signify her marriage and social standing. Thomas Jefferys uses beautiful lines to capture the essence of "Grand Tour" in his engravings, particularly the "Costumes of the Levant."