Literary descriptions:
* Sanskrit Texts: These texts often mention different types of clothing, including dhotis (long, unstitched cloth wrapped around the waist), uttarīya (a shawl or scarf), antarvasa (an inner garment), and vastra (a general term for clothing).
* Jataka Tales: These stories describe various garments worn by people of different social classes, including silk and cotton fabrics.
* The Arthashastra: This political treatise by Chanakya, the empire's chief advisor, mentions dress codes for various officials, including robes and headgear.
Archaeological evidence:
* Sculptures: Sculptures from the Mauryan period depict people wearing a variety of garments, including dhotis, uttarīya, and ornaments.
* Paintings: Cave paintings at Ajanta (later period, but influenced by earlier styles) show similar attire, including elaborate headwear and jewelry.
General observations:
* Simplicity: The Mauryan era was known for its emphasis on simplicity and austerity. Clothing was likely more practical and functional than extravagant.
* Social distinctions: Different social classes would have worn different types of clothes, with finer materials and more elaborate designs reserved for the elite.
* Regional variations: The vast empire likely saw regional variations in clothing styles, influenced by local traditions and climates.
Key clothing items:
* Dhoti: The most common garment for men, worn by wrapping a long piece of cloth around the waist and legs.
* Uttarīya: A shawl or scarf worn over the dhoti, often used for warmth or as a symbol of status.
* Antarvasa: An inner garment worn by both men and women, typically made of cotton or silk.
* Sāri: Possibly worn by women, though not definitively depicted in early Mauryan art.
Materials:
* Cotton: Widely used for clothing, particularly among the lower classes.
* Silk: Reserved for the upper classes and elite, likely imported from China.
* Wool: Used for some garments, especially in colder regions.
It's important to note that our understanding of Mauryan fashion is still evolving. As more archaeological evidence and textual sources are discovered, we can gain a clearer picture of the diverse and sophisticated clothing styles of this ancient empire.