In November 1922, an archeological discovery inspired Egyptian influences on current fashion.  The discovery of the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamen, better known as King Tut, inspired designs in many fashion categories:  ladies clothing, jewelry, shoes, perfume, cosmetics and hair styles.  To find out more details about King Tut's reign as pharaoh click his image.

    Many uniquely Egyptian motives were used:  hieroglyphics (ancient Egyptian writing symbols), lotus flowers , the scarab ( a beetle which symbolized the ancient Egyptian god Kepera which was associated with life, resurrection and rebirth), mummies, sphinxes, and more.  Colors such as 'nile' green were popular; for jewelry, gold and lapis lazuli were important.

  Almost every element of women's dress was touched by Egyptian influence during the 1920s.  Egyptian influence was strong in garment styles and also embroideries that adorned them.  The Egyptian influence was more strongly adopted in America than in Europe. This blue wool suit by Gustave Beer has bands for turquiose embroidery and contrasting squares of pink beading. Set at center waist is a painted metal medallion of a scarab.