This section contains pictures, diagrams and discussion of various Persian clothing styles through the ages. As the 16th century is the time period I am most familiar with, this section is the most robust. However as I frequently field questions regarding earlier time frames, I have begun to put together information on these time frames as well. Persia covered a great deal of territory as well having influence and being influenced by surrounding cultures. I present some thoughts on these surrounding areas as well as those typically considered Persia.
When considering clothing from different time periods in Persia, it is important to consider not only the date of interest but the location. The area of the world we know as Persia had variable borders. At many points in history, Persia was controlled by multiple dynasties at the same time. It is not enough state "12th century Persia" but you also need to know Western, Eastern, etc.
Seljuk Clothing (11th through 13th century)
10th Century
9th Century
8th Century
Sassanid (3rd through 7th century)
Parthians (late 1st century B.C. through 3rd century A.D.)
Achaemenids (550 – 356 BC) and Medians (675-550 BC)
Related Cultures