In ancient Egypt, people were very particular about cleanliness and personal appearance. The climate of the country had forced people to take care of their skin and body. Thus, adornment of the body was an important part of their lives for aesthetic purposes. People were considered inferior if they were poorly groomed. Ancient Egypt Adornment consisted of usage of jewelry, cosmetics, wigs, clothes, alluring perfumes and other such things.

Ancient Egyptians elite class often practiced a quite elaborate cosmetic routine.Women were the pioneers in dress and hygiene as they learned to enhance their natural beauty and charm of their graceful movements by the tasteful lines of their costume, hairstyles, cosmetics, and jewelry. The beauty of Queen Cleopatra has intrigued and charmed both men and women for centuries. People have the propensity to explain their worldly successes by these adornments, social status, and wealth.  These adornments helped to earn divine favor by pleasing the Gods.

Adornment of Jewelry

Both men and women used cosmetics, and other jewelry to enhance their physical appearance. Jewelry was worn by both rich and poor people. Ancient Egypt adornment included various types of jewelry and ornaments. This helped them to look beautiful but and also to appease gods. Use of materials like gold, silver and semi- precious gems and stones formed an essential part of the jewelry.

The elegant design of jewelry like turquoise, carnelian and lapis lazuli was quite expensive. Glass was also used and known in making jewelry. The other types of jewelry used for self-adornment by the ancient Egyptians included amulets, bracelets, necklaces, armlets, earrings, finger-rings, pins, etc. Pectorals were a type of amulet worn on the chest. Pendants were another type of amulet. Another reason for wearing jewelry was to show one’s social status and worldly successes.

Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt

In ancient Egypt, cosmetics were used by both men and women and formed an essential part of their adornment. A green substance called Malachite was applied on the eyelids. The Black Kohl used as an eyeliner was made from various things like wood or stone. The eye makeup not only beautified the eyes but also provided a layer of protecting cover from the harsh weather. Red ochre was used to color the lips.

Scented oils and animal fat were used to keep the skin soft and shiny. Piercing and tattooing were the also common practices in enhancing feminine charms.

Adornment: Hairstyle in Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egyptians took great care of their hair. Hair was washed and scented by both men and women. Hairpieces were sometimes worn but Wigs were more popular during this period. These wigs were made either from human hair or sheep’s wool and were regarded as a fashion symbol. The rich people often tied a cone made of animal fat on their heads. The fat contained scent and soon melted releasing fragrance because of the heat of the sun. This melting of the cone resulted in providing its wearer with good aromatic scents and a soothing effect.

At festive and ceremonial occasions, the wings were arranged into careful pleats and strands, which were often long and heavy. Ancient Egyptians also used red dye to color their hair. In order to affirm their devotion to the deities and to reinforce their cleanliness, which is a sign of purification, the priests shaved their heads and bodies