Greek Myth Fashion: Apollo, Hermes, & Iris

Iris and Jupiter by Michel Corneille the Younger Photo Credit

Hello and welcome back to Greek Myth Fashion, your fortnightly dose of Greek mythology-inspired style. We will continue the trend set by previous articles, drawing inspiration from the gods and goddesses of Olympus.  

In this article I will show you three end-of-summer outfits inspired by Apollo, Hermes, and Iris.

Apollo – God of Music

Apollo is the god of music, poetry, art, prophecy, healing, sun and light, and more. He is therefore considered one of the most complex gods in Greek mythology. He is also the twin brother of Artemis, the goddess of the hunt. 

As a patron god of arts, Apollo is the leader of the Muses, the nine inspirational goddesses who preside over the arts and sciences. And he is the prophetic deity that communicates through the Oracle of Delphi.

Products: Top, Skirt, Necklace, Sandals, Earphones

In this outfit the central piece is a skirt that resembles a painted canvas, perfect for a lover of the arts. Combine it with a white top and a pair of neutral block-heeled sandals to allow the colors of the skirt to pop. Add a layered necklace reminiscent of the sun. To finalize this look inspired by the god of music, listen to your favorite playlist through floral earphones, a nod to one of Apollo’s lovers- Hyacinthus.

Hermes – Messenger of the Gods

Hermes is the messenger of Olympus, capable of crossing realms to deliver news to both gods and mortals. He is also the god of travels, hospitality and trade, and the protector of thieves, athletes, herdsmen, orators, and travelers.

Hermes is a cunning god, known for being a trickster. According to myth, Hermes snuck out of his crib as an infant and stole Apollo’s cattle, and crafted the first lyre out of tortoise shell. Apollo’s desire to own the lyre was so great that he offered Hermes patronage over all herds in exchange for the instrument.

Products: Top, Skirt, Earrings, Watch, Sneakers

Because Hermes is a god of both traveling and trade, I chose to create a nautical look using a navy skirt and a striped top (ahoy, Breton stripes!). Hermes is famous for his winged sandals, but until Mount Olympus opens a shoe store let’s settle for a pair of comfortable sneakers, ideal for running errands. Accessorize with a watch featuring a vintage world map as a tribute to the god’s travels (and your own wanderlust), and a pair of stone studs.

Iris – Goddess of the Rainbow

Iris is the goddess of rainbows and a messenger of the gods. She is considered a personal messenger and handmaiden of Hera, and she is married the Zephyrus, the god of the west wind.

In some pieces of literature (like Homer’s Iliad), she appears as a divine messenger, but in other works her role is merged with Hermes’. Iris is depicted in paintings as either a rainbow, or a young woman with wings. 

Products: Dress, Earrings, Hairband, Clutch, Sandals

When I think of Iris I picture brightly colored clothing items in fearless combinations. (I mean, she is the personification of a rainbow.) But for this particular outfit I drew inspiration from one of my favorite Greek mythology paintings, Iris and Jupiter by Michel Corneille the Younger (illustrated at the beginning of the article). If you look at Iris’ clothes, you’ll notice two familiar shades: Rose Quartz and Serenity, a.k.a Pantone’s colors of the year for 2016. I adore these colors and I love how the painter linked them to Iris, so I created this outfit as a tribute to his artistic vision.

This Iris-inspired outfit is ideal for formal events. Pair a Rose Quartz dress with a Serenity clutch, add nude high-heeled sandals, and accessorize with blue stud earrings and a delicate hairband. Et Voilà! You’re embodying a beautiful rainbow goddess now, so go on and have fun! 

What do you think?

Who is your favorite god/goddess? Would you wear any of these outfits? Which deity would you like to see next? Let us know in the comments below!