Ancient Greece and Rome Beauty Standards

Reading Time: 3 minutes

First published: 21 March 2022 @ 6:00 pm

Overall Appearance

When the ancient Greeks and Romans ruled, people were judged based on the appearance of their bodies.

It meant that people would be judged based on their clothing and hairstyle, and their overall demeanor.

That is why many people tried to dress and act in a manner that they believed was attractive and dignified.

White teeth, long eyelashes, and no body odor were also preferred.

The perfume was to be strong enough to block off body odor, but not so strong that it caused people to reek.

As for hairstyles, the Greek women of the upper classes wore long hair that was braided and coiffed into intricate styles.

Ancient Greek women were known to use olive oil to condition their hair and skin, but that was only for women who could afford it.

Natural Beauty

The people of ancient Greece and Rome considered that natural beauty was the most attractive kind of beauty.

After a long time that the art community shifted from geometric-oriented art to realistic depictions of the human body, in this ancient art we can see one of the most famous and accurate depictions of naked male bodies.

This is in line with the notion that ancient Greeks and Romans prefer natural beauty more.

It is important that people avoid synthetic enhancements such as makeup or plastic surgery.

The result was that many people had simple, natural-looking faces.

By the early 1500’s AD, people in Rome became obsessed with white skin.

Pale skin on women is considered a sign that they are beautiful and refined because it shows that they were fortunate not to have to work outside.

Share this article with your friends and family who are also looking to learn more about Ancient Greece and Rome beauty standards!