Stola This created the illusion of layers, a symbol of wealth and status. Stolas were made in a variety of colors including red, yellow, and blue. Decorations were also added to the neckline and hem. For common women, these would be a simple band of color or pattern. For wealthier women, more details and embellishments were used. A wide ornamental border called an instita was often used around the neckline and hem as a display of wealth. Stola The stola was the traditional garment of Roman women, corresponding to the toga, that was worn by men. The stola was usually woollen.
Stola first was worn just below the breasts creating a great number of folds. The second and wider belt was worn around the waist. Stolas were generally made of fabrics like linen or wool, but a wealthy woman could be seen wearing a stola made of silk. The stola was worn as a symbol and represented a woman's marital status. A wealthier woman might also have added a limbus to her stola. A limbus was a separate piece of fabric with many folds that was sewn into the hem of the stola creating the appearance of another gown being worn beneath.