Stola

Definition

The stola was a long, flowing garment worn by women in ancient Rome, typically draped over the shoulders and reaching down to the ankles. This garment symbolized the status and respectability of Roman women, particularly those who were married or of higher social standing. The stola was often worn over a tunic and could be made from various materials, highlighting the importance of clothing in expressing identity and social class.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stola was typically made from wool or linen, and its color and decoration could signify a woman's status or wealth.
2. Wearing a stola was a legal requirement for respectable Roman women, emphasizing their social position and respectability.
3. The stola could be accessorized with belts or brooches, which added personal flair and could indicate social standing.
4. Unlike the simpler tunic, the stola had specific styles that denoted marital status; married women wore it while unmarried women typically wore the simpler toga.
5. The design of the stola evolved over time, influenced by cultural exchanges with other regions, especially during the late Republican and early Imperial periods.

Review Questions

• How did the design and use of the stola reflect the social status of Roman women?
  • The design and use of the stola were closely tied to the social status of Roman women. As a garment reserved primarily for married women and those of higher social standing, its style, material, and embellishments communicated wealth and respectability. The stola's length and draping style also showcased femininity and virtue, aligning with Roman ideals regarding women's roles in society.
• Discuss how clothing, specifically the stola, played a role in establishing gender norms within Roman society.
  • Clothing in Roman society, especially the stola, was integral in establishing strict gender norms. The stola was emblematic of modesty and virtue expected from women, marking their identity as respectable citizens. In contrast to men's clothing, which often emphasized military or civic duty, the stola reinforced traditional roles for women focused on domesticity and family life. This distinction in attire helped maintain societal expectations regarding gender behavior.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural exchanges on the evolution of the stola throughout different periods of Roman history.
  • The evolution of the stola throughout Roman history reflects significant cultural exchanges with neighboring regions. During the late Republican period and into the Imperial era, influences from Eastern fashion led to variations in fabric use, ornamentation, and overall design. These changes not only catered to evolving tastes but also highlighted Rome's expanding reach as it absorbed different cultural elements. The adaptation of the stola demonstrates how clothing can act as a canvas for broader social transformations within an empire.

Related terms

tunic: A basic garment worn by both men and women in ancient Rome, typically knee-length and made of wool or linen.

palla: A shawl or outer garment worn by Roman women, often draped over the stola for modesty and warmth.

paterfamilias: The male head of a Roman family, responsible for the household's authority and financial decisions.