Stola and Palla

The stola and palla are an outfit once emblematic of women of the Ancient Asurian upper class. In modern times, it has come to be popular attire for Asurians, particularly in the warmer climes of the peninsula itself. While some consider the long, flowing robes of the outfit to be impractical, the simple elegance of the design makes for a sharp contrast to the elaborate dresses of modern high culture.  

Stola

The stola is a loose and flowing sleeveless gown, traditionally formed by simply sewing a bolt of cloth into a tube and pinning sections in one of the open ends to form 3 holes for the arms and the head. A belt at the waist, and optionally another around the midriff, adds more figure to the shape, making for a dress that is light and comfortable in hot weather, while simultaneously providing an elegant and beautiful form.   Modern variations add a bit more structure to the shape, adding options like flared skirts or a tighter fit around parts of the torso. Some only stitch the fabric down to the hip, thigh or knee, giving more room for longer steps while also exposing the leg beneath, usually paired with some manner of stocking underneath. The flared skirts are particularly popular among women of action, as this provides the freedom for the footwork needed to support swordplay, if an emergency were to arise (though as the attire clearly provides effectively no protection, nobody would be foolish enough to wear it in conditions where they expect a fight.)  

Palla

A palla is simply a rectangular mantle, worn hanging over the left shoulder, covering the left arm. It is then wrapped around the body at the waist, leaving the right arm free, and then carried over the left arm. This part is principally what gives the whole outfit a reputation for impracticality - not only does it occupy the left arm, but that arm must also be held up, bent at the elbow to properly support it. However, most people who wear it are quite willing to simply shift the end hanging on the bent arm up over the shoulder, tucking it out of the way. For those preparing for action, the palla also provides a convenient way to cover a weapon worn at the waist, and is worn loosely enough to be discarded easily.