Greek Fashion & Design: Jewelry, Traditional Costumes & Stylish Souvenirs 🇬🇷✨

Greece is not only the cradle of Western civilization but also a treasure trove of exquisite fashion, timeless jewelry, and rich textile traditions. From ancient-inspired jewelry brands to vibrant traditional costumes and chic souvenirs, Greek fashion and design blend history with contemporary elegance.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:
🔹 Top Greek jewelry brands and designers
🔹 Traditional Greek costumes and their fascinating history
🔹 The best stylish souvenirs to bring home from Greece

Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a history lover, or a traveler seeking authentic Greek keepsakes, this article will inspire your next Greek-inspired style choices!

🏺 Greek Jewelry Brands & Designers: Timeless Elegance

Greek jewelry is renowned for its intricate designs, often inspired by mythology, ancient art, and the natural beauty of the Aegean. Here are some of the most prestigious Greek jewelry brands and designers you should know:

1. LALAoUNIS – The Legend of Greek Gold

Founded by Ilias Lalaounis in 1940, this iconic brand is famous for its gold jewelry inspired by ancient Greek motifs, such as meander patterns, olive branches, and mythological figures. Each piece is a masterpiece, often exhibited in museums worldwide.

Why it’s special:
✔ Handcrafted using traditional techniques
✔ Worn by celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy
✔ A perfect blend of history and luxury

2. Elena Votsi – Modern Minimalism

A former designer for Bulgari, Elena Votsi creates sleek, contemporary jewelry with a Greek touch. Her collections feature geometric shapes, marine themes, and organic textures, making them ideal for everyday elegance.

Best-sellers:
✔ Wave-inspired rings & bracelets
✔ Delicate gold necklaces with symbolic charms

3. Nikos Koulis – Avant-Garde Glamour

Known for his bold designs, Nikos Koulis combines precious gemstones with unconventional materials, creating statement pieces loved by international fashionistas.

Signature styles:
✔ Asymmetrical earrings with diamonds
✔ Colorful gemstone cocktail rings

4. Zeus + Dione – Luxury with a Mythological Twist

This high-end brand merges Greek mythology with modern fashion, offering jewelry that tells a story. Their collections often feature gods, goddesses, and ancient symbols in elegant gold and silver designs.

5. Local Artisans & Boutique Brands

For unique, handmade pieces, explore small workshops in Athens’ Plaka district or Santorini’s jewelry boutiques. Look for:
✔ Evil eye charms (to ward off negativity)
✔ Hamsa hand designs (symbol of protection)
✔ Olive branch motifs (symbol of peace)

👗 Traditional Greek Costumes & Their History

Greek traditional costumes are a vibrant reflection of the country’s regional diversity and cultural heritage. Each outfit tells a story of local customs, social status, and historical influences.

1. The Foustanella (Men’s Kilt)

📜 Origin: Worn by Greek warriors and revolutionaries during the 1821 War of Independence.
👀 Features:
✔ A pleated white skirt (symbolizing the 400 years of Ottoman rule)
✔ Embroidered waistcoat (fermeli)
✔ Knee-high stockings and tsarouhia (pom-pom shoes)

Where you’ll see it:

• Evzones (Presidential Guards) in Athens
• Traditional festivals like Greek Independence Day

2. The Amalia Dress (Women’s Gown)

📜 Origin: Named after Queen Amalia (1836), who popularized this elegant style.
👀 Features:
✔ Long, flowing dress with a fitted bodice
✔ Rich embroidery in gold and blue
✔ Often paired with a fez or crown

Modern influence:
Many Greek designers incorporate Amalia-style embroidery into wedding dresses and evening gowns.

3. The Pontian Costume (Black Sea Region)

📜 Origin: From the Pontic Greeks of the Black Sea.
👀 Features:
✔ Vibrant red and black fabrics
✔ Intricate beadwork and silver belts
✔ Distinctive headscarves

4. The Cretan Male & Female Attire

📜 Origin: Reflects the warrior spirit of Crete.
👀 Features:
✔ Men: Black boots, vraka (baggy trousers), and embroidered vests
✔ Women: Colorful aprons, headscarves, and layered skirts

Did you know?
Many Greek folk dance groups still wear these costumes during performances!

🛍️ Stylish Souvenirs to Buy in Greece

Bringing home a piece of Greece is a must! Here are the best stylish souvenirs to shop for:

1. Leather Sandals (Ancient Greek Style)

👣 Where to buy:
✔ Melissinos Art (Athens) – Custom-made sandals since the 1920s
✔ Santorini & Mykonos boutiques

Why they’re special:
✔ Handmade with natural leather
✔ Inspired by ancient Greek gods’ footwear

2. Evil Eye Jewelry & Decor

🧿 Meaning: Protects against negative energy.
🛒 Best finds:
✔ Blue glass evil eye bracelets
✔ Ceramic wall hangings

3. Olive Wood Products

🛒 What to buy:
✔ Olive wood kitchen utensils
✔ Hand-carved jewelry boxes

Why it’s eco-friendly:
✔ Made from renewable Greek olive trees

4. Byzantine-Inspired Icons & Art

🖼️ Best places to shop:
✔ Monastiraki Flea Market (Athens)
✔ Religious shops in Meteora

5. Greek Silk Scarves & Embroidery

🧣 Top picks:
✔ Silk scarves with Greek key patterns
✔ Embroidered tablecloths from Hydra

🔍 FAQs About Greek Fashion & Design

1. What is the most famous Greek jewelry brand?

LALAoUNIS is the most prestigious, known for its ancient-inspired gold designs.

2. Are Greek evil eye bracelets only blue?

No! While blue is traditional, you can find them in various colors, each with different meanings.

3. Where can I buy authentic Greek costumes?

Check local markets in Athens, Nafplio, or Thessaloniki, or visit folk art museums that sell replicas.

4. What is the best Greek souvenir for fashion lovers?

Handmade leather sandals or gold evil eye jewelry make perfect stylish keepsakes.

5. Can I wear a traditional Greek costume as a tourist?

Yes! Many shops sell lightweight, wearable versions for festivals or photos.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Greek Style!

From ancient-inspired jewelry to handwoven textiles and timeless leather sandals, Greek fashion is a celebration of heritage and craftsmanship. Whether you’re shopping in Athens’ chic boutiques or a Santorini artisan workshop, you’ll find pieces that tell a story.

Which Greek fashion treasure will you take home? 🇬🇷💍👗