culottes-type skirts

Forearms were universally bare. Sleeves were tightly fitted, puffed or 'leg-of-mutton' styled. They were held in place by ribbons tied at the neck or by crossed shoulder straps over the back.
The corset was one of the most surprising garments. It was formed of a framework of metal plates, which presupposes the use of copper. The technology was new and unknown to Neolithic people. The corset made the skirt lie flat on the hips and accentuated the slimness of the waist and the prominence of the bare breasts.
The slim waist was sought after mostly by women, but also by and men. It was often accentuated by a belt. Cretan women of Middle Minoan I wound the girdle twice round the waist, letting the ends fall in front to the foot of the skirt. Another type of belt,promotional gifts, with two rolls but without tabs, remained in vogue over a long period and has been found in faience votive objects. A simpler style consisted in only one roll.
The apron worn on top of the skirt originated in the primitive loincloth common to all prehistoric Palaeolithic and Neolithic peoples, which might have been ritually preserved in religious costume.
Minoan costume became most elaborate between 1700 and 1500 BC; it was a superb example of luxury and elegance. Vivid colors and rich textiles characterized the Cretan's wardrobe, which included the gown,nurse gifts, the apron, bodices, culottes-type skirts,thanksgiving gifts, and numerous styles of hats. After the Mycenaean invasion in 1450, Mycenaean women took Minoan colors and costume shape,fleece blankets, and these eventually made their way Into Greek styles.