Introduction
In our last article, we explored how ancient Egypt has been reimagined for the big screen and video game consoles. Today, we'll shift our focus to two other powerful forms of cultural expression: fashion and music. From the elegant pleats of a designer gown to the catchy chorus of a chart-topping pop song, the influence of Kemet is all around us, proving that its style and rhythm are truly timeless.
This is a deep dive into the world of "Egyptomania" beyond the pyramids, showing how ancient motifs, aesthetics, and even dance moves have been woven into the fabric of modern creativity.
From the Runway to the Street: Kemet's Fashion Legacy
The ancient Egyptians were masters of elegance and simplicity. Their fashion, born of necessity in a hot climate, was centered around the use of fine, breathable linen. This basic material was then transformed through intricate pleating and draping, creating fluid, beautiful silhouettes.
This legacy can be seen on runways today. The sheath dress, a staple of modern women's fashion, is a direct descendant of the kalasiris, the form-fitting linen gown worn by ancient Egyptian women. Fashion houses from Christian Dior to Fausto Puglisi have created entire collections inspired by the grandeur of ancient Egypt, featuring golden breastplates, intricate beadwork collars, and bold geometric patterns reminiscent of hieroglyphs.
Beyond clothing, ancient Egyptian beauty standards continue to be a dominant force. The use of kohl eyeliner, a staple of both women and men in Kemet for both cosmetic and protective purposes, remains an iconic and timeless makeup trend. And the image of Cleopatra VII, with her ornate headpieces and luxurious adornments, has become a muse for countless designers seeking to evoke a sense of power and regality.
The Sound of the Sun Barque: Music and the Allure of Kemet
While direct musical influences from Kemet are rare, the visual and conceptual impact is undeniable. The most famous example is, of course, The Bangles' 1986 hit, "Walk Like an Egyptian."
The song, with its quirky rhythm and memorable chorus, was a global phenomenon. Its iconic dance move—a stiff-armed, sideways shuffle—was a playful take on the way human figures were depicted in ancient Egyptian art, with their bodies shown front-facing and their limbs in profile. Though not a historically accurate depiction of how Egyptians actually walked, the song's widespread popularity made the "Egyptian" style of movement a recognizable part of pop culture, introducing a generation to a stylistic element of ancient art.
In modern pop music, especially in music videos from various parts of the world, ancient Egyptian motifs are used to create a sense of opulence and fantasy. Pharaohs, pyramids, and goddesses like Cleopatra and Nefertiti are used to craft a visually stunning aesthetic, transporting viewers to a world of ancient grandeur.
The Enduring Appeal of Style and Symbolism
The influence of Kemet on fashion and music is a testament to the power of its visual language. From the elegant simplicity of its clothing to the powerful symbolism of its gods, the aesthetic of ancient Egypt is a timeless resource for artists and designers. It offers a sense of drama, history, and elegance that continues to captivate and inspire, proving that Kemet's legacy is not just etched in stone, but also woven into the threads of our culture and heard in the rhythm of our songs.
Join the Discussion:
What's your favorite example of ancient Egyptian style in modern fashion or music? Do you know of any other songs or trends that have been inspired by Kemet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!