We have a lot to thank Zendaya for. With the helping hand from her long-serving stylist Law Roach, the star has brought about a renewed interest in Ancient Greek dress codes, delivering a string of stunning red carpet looks during the press tour for Christopher Nolan’s new epic The Odyssey.
Fashioned by renowned costume designer Ellen Mirojnick, who worked with Nolan for his 2023 blockbuster Oppenheimer, the actress has whole-heartedly embraced her role of Athena for the film, which follows protagonist Odysseus on his perilous ten-year journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. The storied hero faces mythical creatures, vengeful gods, and countless trials before reuniting with his wife, Penelope.
Considering the film’s rave reviews, it comes as little surprise that Greek-chic style has re-entered the limelight. Ancient Greek women's style was defined by elegant drapery, lightweight fabrics and easy-wear simplicity. The most iconic garments included the peplos, a rectangular woollen cloth folded and fastened at the shoulders, and the chiton, a softer linen tunic gathered with belts or pins to create free-flowing silhouettes.
© GC Images
© The OdysseyColours ranged from natural ivory to rich saffron, crimson and blue (contrary to the widespread misconception that all dresses were white) while embroidered borders and delicate jewellery added refinement. Sandals, braided hairstyles and gold accessories completed the look. (Although we beg of you - please leave the gladiator sandals in the 2010s.)
Celebrating fluid movement rather than structure, Ancient Greek fashion has inspired luxury brands and designers for centuries, including Chanel, Dior, Valentino, Versace, Norma Kamali, Alberta Ferretti, Givenchy and Jean Paul Gaultier to name a humble few.
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesFrom Karl Lagerfeld to Maria Grazia Chiuri, fashion's most influential pioneers have long celebrated the enduring appeal of Ancient Greek style. Deliciously slouchy gowns, sculptural silhouettes, gleaming gold jewellery and lace-up shoes have graced the runways season after season, proving that Grecian-inspired dressing is as hot today as it was in antiquity.
Given that the current heatwave wages on and summer is in full swing, what better time to embrace goddess-inspired silhouettes? Read on below and shop our best Greek-chic dresses inspired by cinema’s latest hit.
Greek-chic dresses to shop inspired by The Odyssey:
Lunessa Dress
De La Vali
Dial up the glamour with De La Vali. The brand's ethereal Lunessa Dress is destined for sun-soaked Ibiza getaways and elegant brides-to-be seeking a touch of timeless drama.
Leia Drape Gown
Bec + Bridge
Available in indulgent buttercream, mature crimson and failsafe black, Bec + Bridge's exquisitely draped dress oozes Odyssey-inspired sophistication.
Asymmetric Draped Dress
Mango
Don't forget - Ancient Greek dresses weren't only cut in white hues. Crimson was a popular choice for these stylish ladies, and Mango's asymmetrical offering is a must-see draped dream.
Ammalie Dress
Simkhai
A luxurious take on the trend, Simkhai's one-shouldered number is set to delight quiet luxury dressers. Feminine and playful in equal measure, this poplin piece is a no-brainer for those with generous budgets.
Cream Plunge-Neck Maxi Dress With Draped-Detailing
Club L
Highly sensual and very much on-theme, Club L's goddess-inspired gown comes complete with a soft cream white hue, a sexy plunging neckline and textural draping throughout.
Woven Midi Dress
MaxMara
Divinely simple yet undeniably impactful, MaxMara's effortless slip-on design comes in two timeless monochrome colourways. Featuring a soft, androgynous silhouette, crisp white ribbed trims and a relaxed V-neck, it's the kind of versatile knit you'll reach for day after day.
The Daphne Draped Stretch-Woven Maxi Dress
Deme
Minimalism meets modern elegance with Deme's Daphne Draped Stretch-Woven Maxi Dress. Cut in an understated off-white hue, the fluid silhouette skims the body beautifully, while artful draping and a floor-sweeping hem create a mature, refined look.
Bridget Dress
Maniere De Voir
Sleek, refined and just the right amount of sexy, Maniere De Voir's Bridget Dress is a feline pick that's primed for glamorous beach weddings and after-dark date nights alike.
Draped Maxi Dress
H&M
Featuring a romantically scooped back, large flutter sleeves and a longline silhouette, H&M's affordable white dress will pair perfectly with chunky gold jewels and a raffia clutch.
Kiran Dress
Reformation
Master haute heatwave dressing this summer with a little help from Reformation. The brand's Kiran Dress boasts a backless design, a halterneck cut and a pristine white palette that's ripe for chic summer frolicking.
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